20 percent increase in 110 eligible schools since start of 2015-2016 school year
(SPARKS, Nev.) – Just three months into the 2015-2016 school year, the implementation of Senate Bill 503, also known as the “Breakfast after the Bell” bill, has already seen significant statewide success, with a 20 percent increase in participation among qualified schools (from 20 percent participation to 40 percent).
The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) data shows that in September and October alone, the 110 schools that qualified for implementing a breakfast after the bell program have served an additional 781,707 breakfasts, bringing an additional $1.5 million in Federal reimbursements into the state of Nevada.
"The Governor and I are so proud of the success that's been seen in Nevada schools thanks to this bill," First Lady Kathleen Sandoval said. "This progress demonstrates how important it is to ensure all students in Nevada have access to a healthy breakfast, and can start each day ready to learn."
Extensive research has shown students who consume breakfast score higher on academic tests, have fewer behavioral issues and fewer visits to the school nurse.
The Breakfast after the Bell bill was signed into law by Governor Brian Sandoval in June, and required all Nevada schools with 70 percent or greater eligibility implement an option for students to receive breakfast after the start of the school day.
The bill also set aside $2 million in grant money to assist in implementation over the next two years. To date, 50 schools across all 8 eligible school districts have received a grant, totaling $337,000. The funds have been used for equipment like refrigerators, ovens or computers for additional points of service; supplies like utensils or carts; staff time to deliver food or attend trainings provided by the NDA; education and outreach materials to encourage participation.
The Nevada Department of Agriculture (NDA) promotes a business climate that is fair, economically viable and encourages a sustainable environment that serves to protect food, fiber and human health and safety through effective service and education. NDA includes the divisions of Administration, Animal Industry, Consumer Equitability, Food and Nutrition and Plant Industry.