WILMINGTON, DE — Delaware Governor John Carney signed House Substitute 2 for House Bill 125 on Tuesday, July 23. The newly enacted legislation expands access to free breakfast and lunch for students who currently receive reduced-price meals under federal programs. The ceremony included members of the General Assembly, including bill sponsor Representative Sherae’a “Rae” Moore, as well as leaders from the Delaware Department of Education and the Red Clay School District.
“Foundationally, there’s nothing more important than making sure our young children can perform and can learn. The future of our state depends on it,” said Governor Carney. “To set our students up for that success, we have to make sure they are well fed and have good nutrition. I want to thank Representative Moore, Senator Tizzy Lockman, and all those who supported this bill to help make that possible.”
Addressing a Critical Need
The new measure is set to benefit approximately 2,500 students statewide, according to the Delaware Department of Education. These students will now receive breakfast and lunch free of charge starting in the 2024-2025 school year. This initiative aims to ensure that no child goes to school hungry, a sentiment echoed by several state leaders.
“Our leaders of tomorrow are sitting in our classrooms today. No child should have to go to school hungry. I commend Rep. Moore for her leadership on this important measure to ensure children have a bright future. The evidence is clear, when our students have access to nutritious meals at school they perform better academically, improve behaviorally, and achieve higher levels of success in and out of the classroom,” said Lt. Governor Bethany Hall-Long.
The Broader Impact of Nutrition on Education
The legislation was supported by various stakeholders who understand the critical link between nutrition and educational outcomes. Proper nutrition has been shown to significantly impact students’ academic performance, behavior, and overall success in school.
“As a teacher, I saw firsthand that food insecurity affects not only the body but also the mind. We simply cannot expect our students to perform at their best when they are not properly fueled,” said State Representative Sherae’a “Rae” Moore. “With the signing of HB 125, we have taken an important step toward supporting our most vulnerable learners by providing access to healthy, nutritious meals. I want to thank all the advocates and community members whose efforts and hard work helped to make this day possible. Together, we are easing the worry of hunger, allowing students to focus on their education and reach their full potential.”
Expert and Community Support
Experts and community leaders have praised the bill for its potential to improve student health and educational attainment. Aimee Beam, the Nutrition Director for the Delaware Department of Education, emphasized the importance of the initiative.
“By eliminating the reduced price meal fee for students, Delaware is increasing access to nutritious meals for families in need,” said Beam. “This change helps ensure all children are given a chance to meet their daily nutrition goals as well as focus on academics – not hunger – throughout the school day.”
Nemours Children’s Health also supported the legislation, highlighting its broader implications for child health.
“Nemours Children’s Health supported this legislation because we are deeply invested in addressing children’s health well beyond medicine. By eliminating the financial barrier to school meals, Delaware is ensuring all students in our public schools have access to food, which is imperative for their future,” said Dr. Kara Walker, Executive Vice President and Chief Population Health Officer of Nemours Children’s Health. “Research consistently shows that proper nutrition is critical for children’s growth, development, and ability to learn. As the first pediatric health system to become a USDA MyPlate National Strategic Partner, we applaud this important step forward in addressing childhood hunger in Delaware.”
Looking Ahead
With the signing of HB 125, Delaware is taking a crucial step towards ensuring that all students have access to the nutrition they need to succeed. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to combat childhood hunger and promote educational equity. As the 2024-2025 school year approaches, students, parents, and educators alike look forward to a future where no child has to worry about their next meal.
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