A nutritious school breakfast is key to a student’s success, impacting academic performance and overall well-being. During National School Breakfast Week, it’s vital to acknowledge the significance of a healthy morning meal for students. Research shows that school breakfast programs boost test scores, improve attendance, reduce disciplinary issues, and address food insecurity among students, fostering a comprehensive approach to education.
According to the Food Research & Action Center’s report, New York ranks 22nd in school breakfast participation. Blue Creek Elementary in Latham, part of the North Colonie School District, celebrated National School Breakfast Week by highlighting their success in increasing breakfast participation. The district recently obtained approval for Community Eligibility, allowing them to offer breakfast at no cost to all students and witnessing a 114% rise in participation within the first month. “Eating a healthy breakfast fuels the brain for learning and helps children perform to their potential,” says Lisa Ostrowski, the school district’s director of Food & Nutrition Services.
American Dairy Association North East, through its Youth Program Specialists, offers a pathway for schools to improve their breakfast program and increase program participation. Connect with us to have one of our team specialists, located throughout the State, evaluate your current breakfast program. They will work with you to identify resources tailored to your school’s needs. Additionally, they can help you explore different meal service models. Whether it’s classroom meal delivery or grab-and-go hallway kiosks, these options provide access to meals through and showcase healthy food in innovative ways.
Equip your program with the necessary tools, from classroom delivery carts to insulated merchandisers or mobile kiosks. Our specialists have the vendor resources to help you roll out an effective and efficient program.
The School Breakfast Program plays a vital role in addressing childhood hunger and promoting children’s health, learning, and development. New York dairy farmers, through American Dairy Association North East, stand in solidarity with schools striving to enhance and expand nutritional support for children. For more information on available programs and resources, reach out to schools@milk4u.org or visit AmericanDairy.com. Access our marketing toolkits, with recipe ideas and more, to help your students stay active and healthy. It’s time to elevate your school breakfast program and empower students for success.
