Schools Expand Free Breakfast Program and Offer Information on Lunch Programs

The sharp decline in the economy means that more children arrive at school hungry, putting them at a disadvantage when it comes to learning.

Teachers have found there is a strong correlation between eating a healthy breakfast and a student’s ability to concentrate, behave well, and perform well. And that's not just opinion, research shows that eating breakfast has a positive impact on students' academic performance.

This year the Manatee County School district is expanding its free breakfast program to include and . Other Bradenton schools that offer free breakfast include, , 
, , , , Rodgers Garden Elementary and .

More than 60 percent of students eat breakfast at school, according to school district officials. Students just need to get to school a little earlier to take advantage of the breakfast program which typically includes a hot entree like a biscuit sandwich or breakfast burrito. Cereal, muffins, bagels, juice and milk are also offered.

All of the schools in the county also offer a federally funded free lunch program. Parents must fill out an application for their children to be able to get the meals. Household size and income criteria determine a family's eligibility for the free lunch program. Meal benefits are good for an entire year.

Applications and a letter explaining benefits are being sent to all homes.  To receive for free or reduced-price meals, parents or guardians must complete the application and return it to the school.  Additional copies are available at the principal’s office in each school.  The information provided on the application will be used to determine eligibility. Applications may be submitted at any time during the year.

Households that receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program are required to list only the child’s name, SNAP/TANF case number, and signature of adult household member. 

Foster children will receive free benefits regardless of the child’s personal income or the income of the household. Households with children who are considered migrants, homeless, or runaway should contact the district liaison at the Harllee Full Service Center at 941-753-0958.

The school district's business and technology coordinator will review applications and determine eligibility. If a parent or guardian is dissatisfied with the ruling of the official, he or she may discuss the decision with the determining official on an informal basis. Make a formal appeal, either orally or in writing to Jim Drake, P.O. Box 9069, Bradenton 34206 or call 941-708-8770.