Degree Name

Education Specialist (EdS)

Semester of Degree Completion

1998

Thesis Director

Donald W. Smitley

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate school breakfast programs in small enrollment districts in Illinois. The review of literature and research indicated that school breakfast programs may improve student achievement, behavior and attendance, and that providing a breakfast to hungry children may increase their readiness to learn.

The study took place in 1997-98, using a survey instrument designed by the author to collect perceptions about school breakfast programs from Illinois principals. A random sample of 75 principals was selected from all Illinois school districts with student enrollments of less than 1,000 which had breakfast programs. Surveys were returned from 44 principals, representing a 59% response rate.

Respondents were asked to list reasons for starting breakfast programs. Forty-three percent of the principals surveyed reported that the population of students from low-income families was a contributing factor in implementing breakfast programs. Also noted as reasons for starting breakfast programs by 14% of the principals surveyed were meeting the general needs of students and providing a meal for students who had long bus rides.

Outcomes of the study indicated that 88% of the responding principals believed that the breakfast programs in their schools were either very successful or successful. Twenty-four percent of principals also believed that student achievement was improved because of breakfast programs. As a result of breakfast programs, 16% believed behavior was improved, and 11% of respondents perceived improved attendance. Fourteen percent reported that tardiness decreased due to school breakfast. Other effects of school breakfast programs reported were more energetic students, increased readiness to learn, and fewer discipline problems.

It was recommended that school principals consider implementing breakfast programs to enhance student achievement, behavior, attendance and performance. Prior to implementation of breakfast programs, it was recommended that administrators provide flexibility in scheduling, offer variety in menu choices and promote the program to ensure student participation.

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