BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Pennsylvania’s governor is launching a school breakfast challenge to get administrators across the state to incorporate more nutritious local foods for students.
Gov. Josh Shapiro is building onto his universal free breakfast program by launching a three-month program aimed at getting more students to take advantage of a free meal.
“When students can depend on receiving nutritious meals at school, it relieves them from at least one major stressor in their life."Pennsylvania Secretary of Education Dr. Khalid N. Mumin
“When students can depend on receiving nutritious meals at school, it relieves them from at least one major stressor in their life," Education Secretary Khalid N. Mumin said.
"And we know that students perform better, are more attentive, and have fewer behavioral problems when their brains and bodies are well nourished.
“The Universal Free Breakfast Program demonstrates the Shapiro Administration’s commitment to ensuring all children start the day with a full belly, and we encourage schools across the commonwealth to join us for the governor’s School Breakfast Challenge.”
Participation to be recognized
Beginning in January, schools across the state are encouraged to follow the challenge criteria on the Pennsylvania Department of Education website, which includes a breakfast toolkit to promote the program.
The governor's office will recognize schools with the highest participation for their efforts.
Since adding the universal free breakfast program to the budget this year, student participation has doubled, with more than 455,000 free breakfasts served each day in Pennsylvania schools.Pennsylvania Department of Education website
Since adding the universal free breakfast program to the budget this year, student participation has doubled, with more than 455,000 free breakfasts served each day in Pennsylvania schools.
Students who qualify for reduced lunches now can eat their midday meal at no cost, thanks to Shapiro’s funding.
The Pennsylvania Department of Education website not only has challenge details, but more information is provided there for schools that do not currently participate in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast programs.
