Since its initiation in 2014-15, the Breakfast in the Classroom (BIC) program has prompted high praise from the Garland ISD community. Principals and teachers noted a decrease in tardies, while some school nurses reported a reduction in the number of students with headaches and stomach aches in the morning. Observing these benefits, the district will launch the nutritious program at five additional schools, bringing the total number of participating campuses to 23. Cooper, Montclair, Northlake and Shugart elementary schools, as well as Lyles Middle School, will introduce BIC in 2016-17.
“Ensuring that each student has the opportunity to begin their day with a healthy breakfast is a priority of our department,” said GISD’s Assistant Director of Nutrition and Menu Operations Jennifer Craig. “Student Nutrition Services is thrilled with the results from Breakfast in the Classroom. The success of this program has been a team effort.”
Breakfast in the Classroom is established at campuses with at least 80 percent of students qualifying for free or reduced-priced meals. Students at the participating schools head directly to their classrooms at 7:45 a.m. to begin eating their district-provided meal.
Although the program has had much success, feedback and reflection are important for progress.
“Student Nutrition Services conducted a program survey at existing BIC schools,” Craig said. “We analyzed this feedback to strengthen our menu. The highest-rated menu choices from the survey will appear on the fall menu. The sausage biscuit and mini cinnamon rolls were rated most popular with our students.”
In addition to menu changes, BIC campuses will also implement “offer vs. serve,” which allows students to decline a portion of the menu if they wish. This change will help reduce waste and address a concern voiced in the survey.
Information provided by Garland ISD.