Chris S. Long

Degree Name

Education Specialist (EdS)

Semester of Degree Completion

1993

Thesis Director

Freddie A. Banks, Jr.

Abstract

The major purpose of this study was to examine variables in implementing a school breakfast program in Shelbyville Community Unit School District 4, Shelbyville, Illinois. All students in grades kindergarten through eight are eligible to participate in the program.

A review of the literature indicates a link between nutrition and academic achievement as well as behavior and attitude toward learning. One in three school children either does not receive an adequate breakfast or receives no breakfast. Children who are hungry cannot learn. Federal subsidies that provide school lunches to the economically disadvantaged are also available for school breakfast programs. Few schools offer breakfast, but the number is increasing as recognition of the need for breakfast increases.

Both students and parents were surveyed to determine the level of interest in participation in a school breakfast program. Students were also surveyed to determine food preferences to aid in menu planning under the assumption that if the students liked the food offered, they would eat the breakfast. Work and salary schedules of cafeteria employees and supervisors were examined for any needed changes with the implementation of such a program. Physical plant needs were also assessed.

Based on the information collected, there were no major obstacles to the implementation of a school breakfast program in the Shelbyville school system. It was recommended that such a program be implemented for students in grades kindergarten through eight, with the option of extending the program to students in grades nine through twelve after further study.

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