New York has offered free breakfast to public school students, regardless of need, since 2003. But the program, which served hot meals in school cafeterias, wasn't used by anywhere close to the number of students who qualified for free or reduced lunches. It seemed that kids felt embarrassed to show up early and eat in the cafeteria, singled out. School officials needed to figure out how to reach poor kids, or even not-so-poor kids who skimp on breakfast, which nutritionists and pediatricians call (all together now) "the most important meal of the day."
According to a recent New York Times feel-good article, a new program seems to be doing just that. Now in nearly 50 schools serving largely poor student populations, the plan provides free breakfast in the classroom, removing the stigma many felt was keeping kids from taking advantage of earlier cafeteria-based meals. After initial objections by some teachers -- would it cut into planning time? distract the kids? -- everybody seems very satisfied. Some see the possibility to take the show on the road:
Joel Berg, executive director of the New York City Coalition Against Hunger,
said that if the classroom breakfast program succeeded in New York it
could blossom in other states, too. He said advocates for better
nutrition are asking Congress to finance similar programs next year.
“Any
program that feeds hungry children, improves education, reduces
tardiness and absenteeism is clearly an overwhelming public good,” he
said.And as for the most exacting critics of all? “It makes me full and happy,” one student told the Times. “I’m ready to study and learn.” All together now: awwwww.
Photo: Robert Stolarik for The New York Times
