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| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 16, 2003 |
CONTACT: Kimberly Perry PHONE: 202-986-2200 x3020 |
D.C. Schools and Anti-hunger
Advocates
Assure Every Student Has a Smart Start
WASHINGTON, D.C., October 16, 2003 – Studies show that eating a well-balanced meal for breakfast can have a positive effect on academic performance in all subjects. But, in the District of Columbia, only 42 of every 100 students who eat school lunch, also eat school breakfast. So, D.C. Hunger Solutions, a local anti-hunger organization, is partnering with District schools to launch a new campaign, “Smart Start: A smart way to start the day.” The campaign will aim to increase student participation in school breakfast programs at every school.
“ What better way to start the day than by eating a nutritious breakfast that will help students perform better in class? School breakfasts provide the energy every student needs in the morning to tackle a full day of school,” said Kimberly Perry, Director. Students, parents, teachers, and principals will help promote the importance of a nutritious school breakfast with Celebrity Breakfast Readings at select schools, and community forums and events around the city.
The campaign will kick-off with the first Celebrity Breakfast Reading featuring Miss District of Columbia, Lisa Ferris, at Tyler Elementary School on Wednesday, October 15, 2003, at 8:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.
A calendar of events can be obtained by contacting Bi Vuong at 202-986-2200 ext. 3018, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
D.C. Hunger Solutions launched Smart Start to raise awareness about the availability of breakfast for all students at school and to draw attention to the link between eating a good breakfast and cognitive growth. Research shows that children who eat breakfast have improved memory, problem-solving skills, verbal fluency and creative abilities. Qualitative research, including research from Harvard University and the University of Minnesota, also points to improved classroom behavior, with students being more alert, happier and ready to learn. Both studies saw an increase in math test scores in children who ate a good breakfast.
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D.C. Hunger Solutions, a project of the Food Research & Action Center (FRAC), is dedicated to fighting hunger and improving the nutrition, health and well-being of District residents.
