Duncan Urges Support for In-Classroom Breakfast Pilot Program

Header--Montgomery County, Maryland. Press Releases

st/breakfast_pr 99-83

Contact: David Weaver, 301-217-6530
For Immediate Release: March 8, 1999

Duncan Urges Support for
In-Classroom Breakfast Pilot Program

Montgomery County Executive Douglas M. Duncan today joined Delegate Sheila E. Hixson to support the passage of state legislation that would create a three-year pilot program to establish an in-classroom breakfast program in eligible schools. The legislation, entitled the Maryland Meals for Achievement Pilot In-Classroom Breakfast Program, would provide State funding to eligible public and private schools that offer an in-classroom breakfast to all students. The legislation also provides for an income tax credit of up to $25,000 for businesses that make contributions to the breakfast program.

"Common sense tells us that starting the school day with a nutritious breakfast can make the difference between doing well in school or being distracted because you're hungry," said Duncan. "Providing breakfast to these kids is a small price to pay for what will ultimately be better attendance, fewer behavioral problems and improved student performance. I applaud Delegate Hixson for sponsoring this legislation that is vital to the success of every student in classrooms across the state."

"Prior to becoming a member of the General Assembly, I was at one time a Head Start teacher. I remember the problems my young students faced, especially the hungry ones. It was so difficult for them to sit quietly and concentrate," said Hixson. "I also remember how sensitive those students from lower income families were about receiving special assistance. I wanted so much to help."

Joining Duncan and Hixson at this event were Nancy King, a member of the Montgomery County School Board, Laura Howell, Director of Public Policy for the Center for Poverty Solutions and Catherine Allie, Principal of South Lake Elementary School.

"Providing breakfast to all children in the classroom is a cost-effective way to help ensure that children start the day ready to learn," said Howell. "In the existing pilot program, all children benefited from having breakfast in the classroom and teachers tell us that the quality and quantity of instructional time has increased."

Officials say the legislation is needed because of the small number of eligible students currently participating in the before-school breakfast program. Students are reluctant to come forward because of the stigma attached to accepting a free or reduced cost breakfast and because arriving at school before classes begin poses a hardship to many students.

The legislation is scheduled for hearing on March 17 at 1 p.m., before the House Ways and Means Committee. For more information, call 301-858-3469.

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