Galion City Schools has announced an incredible opportunity for all Tiger Families. For the upcoming 2024-2025 school year, all students will receive free breakfast and lunch through the Community Eligibility Program (CEP). This initiative ensures that every student can enjoy nutritious, well-balanced meals without the burden of additional costs.
The school district is piloting this program for the 2024-2025 academic year, with the possibility of extending it for three more years. This means families can save both time and money, knowing their children are receiving quality meals at school each day.
For students at the Intermediate, Middle, and High School levels, a la carte items will still be available for purchase, providing additional options beyond the standard meals.
Parents and guardians should keep an eye on their inboxes for more details coming soon!
Benefits of Breakfast and Lunch at Schools
School-provided meals, including breakfast and lunch, offer numerous benefits that extend beyond basic nutrition. These benefits impact students’ academic performance, behavior, health, and overall well-being.
Academic Performance
- Improved Test Scores: Students who eat breakfast at school perform better on standardized tests compared to those who skip breakfast or eat at home. Nutrient-rich meals contribute to enhanced cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, ultimately leading to better academic outcomes.
Behavioral and Psychological Benefits
- Reduced Behavioral Problems: Participation in school breakfast programs is linked to fewer behavioral issues, such as reduced suspensions and better peer relationships. Students who eat breakfast at school also have lower rates of absenteeism and tardiness, which leads to more consistent learning experiences.
Health and Nutrition
- Balanced Diet: School meals are designed to meet specific nutritional standards, ensuring that students receive adequate amounts of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and essential nutrients. Access to these healthy meals is also associated with lower obesity rates among students, as they are less likely to be high in calories, fat, and sugar compared to packed lunches from home.
- Food Security: School meal programs help reduce food insecurity among low-income families, ensuring that all students have access to nutritious food.
Social and Emotional Well-being
- Social Interaction: Meal times provide opportunities for students to interact with peers, fostering social skills and emotional development. Universal free meal programs help eliminate the stigma associated with receiving free or reduced-price meals, promoting a more inclusive school environment.
Long-term Benefits
- Lifelong Healthy Habits: Consistent access to nutritious meals at school helps students develop healthy eating habits that can last a lifetime. Regular consumption of balanced meals supports physical health, boosts the immune system, and reduces the likelihood of chronic diseases.
