Principals are champions for students, and many are leading the way to address childhood hunger in schools across Alabama. That’s why we’re celebrating National Principals Month by recognizing the incredible school leaders who ensure students have the nutrition they need to learn, grow, and thrive.
New research from No Kid Hungry’s Back to School Report highlights just how critical school meals are for families across the country. Surveying over 1,200 parents, the report reveals that many households are struggling to put food on the table, especially during the summer months when school is out. The return to school and access to reliable school meals provide vital relief. According to the report, 40% of parents worry that food will run out before the end of the month and rising food prices are their top concern. However, most parents surveyed view school meals as a valuable program, with over 80% noting that children perform better in school when they eat there.
40%
of parents worry
that food will run out
before the month.
80%
note children perform
better in school when
they eat there.
In the report, parents shared stories of how school meals reduce financial stress and help their kids stay focused, healthy, and ready to learn. One Alabama parent put it simply:
“For my child, missing out on regular nutritious meals might affect their focus, energy, and overall well-being at school.”
School meals are more than just food – they’re fuel for learning and lifelines for families. They activate student learning, improve attendance, and reduce stress at home. That’s why principals who prioritize school nutrition programs are also helping build stronger communities.
Local Spotlight: Amanda Holloway
Pictured: Principal Amanda Hollaway celebrating her 30th year in education.
This month, we heard from Marshall County’s School Nutrition Director Casey Partain, about Amanda Hollaway, the principal at Brindlee Mountain Elementary School.
Mrs. Hollaway goes above and beyond to make school meals a success at Brindlee Mountain Elementary School.
She starts everyday in the cafeteria for “Morning Moments.” All students go straight to the cafeteria after car or bus drop off to get a healthy breakfast before “Morning Moments.” “Morning Moments” is a time for students and staff to come together to go over important weekly/monthly information, recognize teacher/peers, and start the day off TOGETHER.
Students that meet their AR goals also get a chance to have Lunch in the Library with a friend once a month. “We love special events especially when they involve our school meals instead of outside food,” says Casey.
Mrs. Hollaway’s favorite school lunch is cheese sticks. If she can get away from her desk, she tries to eat in the cafeteria! Principals who not only buy-in to school meals, but show up in the cafeteria to connect with the staff and students help raise awareness of school meals!
Principals like Mrs. Hollaway are helping lead the charge in making sure no child starts their day hungry. Thank you to the school nutrition leaders across the state who took the time to highlight local leaders in your district.
Resources
Want to learn how to build stronger relationships with principals and teachers around breakfast implementation? Watch our webinar, Gaining Teacher and Principal Buy-in for Breakfast After the Bell, where nutrition leaders share proven strategies for initiating engagement, providing training, and maintaining ongoing communication with school staff to ensure the success of Breakfast After the Bell programs.
