Free Breakfast Now Available to Every Student in Oskaloosa School District

The Oskaloosa Community School District in Iowa now offers free breakfast every school day to all students, no matter their family's income. The school board approved the program in early September. No application, registration, or income check is required; students simply go through the breakfast line at their school's regular time. A meal must include at least three items, one of which is a fruit or vegetable, and the menu varies by school and day. Extra items and separate purchases are not covered.

According to food service staff Kelly Davis and Pam Oldes, the district decided to expand the offer after a two-week trial during state testing last school year, when teachers reported students were more ready to work and participated more. Oldes said about 300 elementary students now eat breakfast, and staff can serve up to 350 in roughly 20 minutes. On smoothie days, which occur every other week, about 450 elementary students may be served in that same window. Officials are trying to raise participation among middle and high schoolers, including through a second-chance breakfast mid-morning and grab-and-go options.

The district says it is paying for the program with existing nutrition department money, not because of a new government rule. Officials say savings from the summer lunch program, which uses volunteers found through United Way, help make this possible. Oldes said the program will be reviewed each year based on available funds, so it is not guaranteed to continue indefinitely. Families with questions can contact Kelly Davis at the district central office.