School breakfast programs

Program basics

Offer students a nutritious breakfast, often involving culturally relevant practices and food options
Can be served in the cafeteria before school starts, from grab-and-go carts in hallways, or in classrooms before the day begins
Schools participating in federal programs receive subsidies for each breakfast served

All school-aged children

Not available

1966-present

Increased academic achievement, especially among nutritionally deficient or malnourished children
Increased school attendance
Increased healthy food consumption and improved breakfast nutrition

Note: This content is under review
Participation in these programs depends on the extent to which schools are able to reduce stigma around receiving free meals. Schools can reduce stigma by offering free- or reduced-price breakfast to all students, allowing students to eat together within classrooms, etc.
Successful programs include partnerships with nutritionists, health experts and community leaders.
Local governments should ensure that school breakfast programs become part of the district’s culture, facilitating buy-in within the community.
School teachers and administrators should be trained to handle questions about free or reduced cost meals in school with sensitivity and confidentiality.