Saved by the bell: Increasing food access equity by serving school Breakfast After the Bell

Skipping breakfast is not uncommon among many children. With the hustle and bustle of snoozing the alarm clock once or twice, searching for that matching sock, and scrambling out the door to catch the bus, students often arrive at school hungry. Some families cannot afford to provide their children with a wholesome, nutrient-dense meal.

“Many of my student[s] do not eat breakfast before coming to school due to lack of resources at home and transportation limitation. Students were eager and really appreciated having breakfast available daily.”

Principal, Baltimore City Public Schools, Maryland

Although a seemingly minor detail, providing school breakfast after the bell—as opposed to before—is hugely effective in reducing hidden hunger in students. The Breakfast After the Bell intervention generates positive outcomes in student food access and academic performance.

Breakfast After the Bell | Three Models: 1. “Grab and go” Breakfast: Prepackaged breakfasts are distributed to students in high-traffic areas throughout the school.

2. Second Chance Breakfast: During an extended break, students are able to get breakfast from a designated location.

3. Breakfast in the Classroom: Breakfasts are delivered directly to classrooms using temperature-controlled, portable bags or transporters.

“We went from 125 students eating breakfast to 700 students eating breakfast. Students are more settled, more attentive, and there have been fewer nurse visits in the morning.”

Principal, Hastings Public Schools, Nebraska

However, it's important to recognize that simply getting food into more students' bellies is not sufficient. We want to provide high-quality, healthful foods at school that model meals that we hope kids and families will create for themselves at home. The classroom provides a robust environment for youth to develop healthy eating habits and nutrition knowledge.

References:

School Breakfast After the Bell FRAC Report