“This program is different because the kids can grab a breakfast and bring it back to their class to eat it,” she added. “They do not miss any class time.”
By MARY ANN BAIL
Special to The Republican
GRANBY - According to the research, approximately 5 to 7 percent of students in America are going to school hungry. The number may even be higher, say some.
Further, the experts say, this causes serious short- and long-term health issues and the inability of students to concentrate in class. Hungry kids are more prone to behavioral and emotional problems.
In Granby, this issue came up last year, when the school nurse, Sarah Smith, reported an increasing number of students being sent to the clinic because they were hungry or had no snack.
She reported her concerns to her supervisor, Karen Szlosek, and East Meadow School principal Jennifer Champagne, who in turn shared the problems with the superintendent of schools, Isabelina Rodriguez.
Along with discussing ways to get proper nutrition to the children, they were also concerned about lost classroom time.
“The idea of ‘Grab n’ Go’ came about when I was discussing the breakfast program idea with Andrew Stratton, the food service director from Chartwells,” said Champagne.
The solution was simple: students choose from a selection of nutritious food items, drop it in a paper bag and head off to class.
On Sept. 12, Champagne invited parents and students to attend a breakfast with the principal. She feels this event was a great way to introduce families to the nutritious and delicious offerings which are available before school.
“It is hard to tell how many students are coming to school hungry,” commented Champagne.
Over the years the number of students who receive free or reduced-price lunch has increased. Champagne also noted that many students come from families with single or two working parents and the morning routine can get very chaotic. Breakfast is bypassed to make more time to leave the house, she said.
“In some households, the student is responsible for getting their own breakfast and they just don’t bother,” she added. “We are able to receive government funds for this breakfast program.”
If a student normally gets free or reduced lunch, they are able to get a free or reduced price breakfast.
“This program is different because the kids can grab a breakfast and bring it back to their class to eat it,” she added. “They do not miss any class time.”
The breakfast is served Monday through Friday.
According to Champagne, teachers have been very accommodating and would rather a student eat breakfast in class than be hungry and unable to do their best work.
The program has become increasingly popular. “The first day it opened,we had 10 students,” she said. “Now, we regularly have between 27 to 36 students.”
East Meadow has a total of 204 students.
“I don’t think any of us could perform at our best when we have not had enough to eat,” said Champagne. “By providing students with an opportunity to eat breakfast at school, we are increasing the likelihood of successful learning as well as helping to form healthy habits that we hope will last a lifetime.”