65 Broward schools getting free breakfasts for all students

Posted on September 9, 2010 By bnetonline Broward County, Families, Fort Lauderdale, Local news, Schools

Starting this school year, Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) will offer a Universal – Free Breakfast Program to students attending 65 District schools.  The schools qualified to participate in the program are determined by the state of Florida, which makes universal-free school breakfast meals available to all students in each elementary, middle and high school where 80 per cent or more of the students are eligible for free or reduced-priced meals.

Breakfast is served at all BCPS for $1.10 for elementary school students and $1.20 for middle and high school students.  Students who qualify for free or reduced-price lunch, also qualify for free or reduced-price breakfast.  Qualifications are based on household income and are completely confidential.

Everyone can agree on the importance of breakfast to student achievement, yet too many children miss out on the most critical meal of the day.  Numerous studies have shown that breakfast can improve a student’s memory, test scores, school attendance and cut down on visits to the school nurse.  Research has also shown that children who eat breakfast each day have a higher intake of vitamins and minerals and maintain a healthier weight than those who skip breakfast.

School breakfast provides the necessary energy to start a day of learning and achievement, providing 25 percent of the recommended daily allowance of protein, calcium, iron, vitamins A and C and calories and meeting the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.  Breakfast is served before the start of the school day.  Parents may contact their child’s school to confirm breakfast serving times.

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