Six Principals Are Recognized as Breakfast Champions During National Principal Month
Contact: Laura Rice Lrice@strength.org
Sacramento, CA (October 21, 2024) – National Principals Month is celebrated each October to recognize the hard work and dedication of school principals everywhere. It’s a time to show appreciation for the important role that principals play in the education system, and their contributions to the success of students, schools, and communities. This year, No Kid Hungry California is recognizing six school principals in the Golden State for going above and beyond to ensure that students receive not just an excellent education, but also the nutrition needed to fuel the learning that leads to success in and out of the classroom.
“Principals play such an important role in the makeup of their school communities,” said Kathy Saile, director of No Kid Hungry California. ”When they place a priority on nutrition and food security, it fosters an undeniably positive impact on student health and performance. We’re excited to uplift these innovative school leaders who champion school meal programs like Breakfast After the Bell, so every student can start their day with a nourishing morning meal.”
The 2024 No Kid Hungry California “Celebrating Principals” honorees are:
Principal Karla Guzman, Georgia F. Morris Elementary School
Rialto Unified School District
Recognizing the vital link between proper nutrition and student performance, Principal Guzman played an instrumental role in the successful implementation of the Breakfast in the Classroom (BIC) program at Morris Elementary School. Through her efforts, she has significantly reduced food insecurity within the Rialto student population, fostering a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.
- Principal Jessica Miller, Ed.D., Oasis Elementary School
Morongo Unified School District
Principal Miller took the initiative to ensure that every student at Oasis Elementary School had access to a healthy breakfast through the implementation of the BIC program at her school. Her dedication to provide nutritious food options was also made evident through the introduction of a fresh fruit and vegetable program. She is not just a principal but a role model who encourages her staff and colleagues to prioritize nutrition and health
- Principal Jessica Morrow, John F. Kennedy Elementary School
Desert Sands Unified School District
Through her advocacy, Principal Morrow has successfully implemented the BIC program, making Kennedy Elementary School the first in the district to adopt this initiative. This transformative program has led to an impressive 300% increase in daily meal participation, directly addressing the nutritional needs of her students. Her dedication and vision have made this program not only successful but also a model for other schools.
You can watch a recent NBC Palm Springs clip of Kennedy Elementary’s BIC program.
- Principal James Powell, Morongo Valley Elementary School
Morongo Unified School District
Despite initial concerns from some staff, Principal Powell championed the BIC initiative for the 2024-25 school year, and successfully demonstrated the positive impact that breakfast can have on student well-being and academic performance. The result: a remarkable 95.5% increase in student participation in breakfast during the first 10 days of school compared to the previous year. Principal Powell’s dedication to making sure every child has access to a healthy start each day demonstrates his genuine care for their health and success.
- Principal Jenny Ujiie, James Denman Middle School
San Francisco Unified School District
Principal Ujiie successfully implemented the BIC program at Denman Middle School, demonstrating her commitment to prioritizing student nutrition and addressing hunger as essential components of the school environment. Her remarkable ability to listen to and anticipate the needs of students distinguishes her as a leader. She actively seeks feedback from both students and staff, making informed decisions that improve the overall dining experience for the entire school community. With her results-driven focus, strong organizational skills, and collaborative spirit, Principal Ujiie has made a lasting impact at Denman Middle School.
- Assistant Principal Tricia Land, James Denman Middle School
San Francisco Unified School District
Assistant Principal Land’s attention to the nutritional needs of the Denman Middle School student population demonstrates her commitment to their success and well being. She is an attentive leader whose proactive approach and strong organizational skills have resulted in significant improvements to her school community. Assistant Principal Land brings together students and staff to effect positive, collaborative change at Denman Middle School.
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About No Kid Hungry
No child should go hungry in America. But millions of kids could face hunger this year. No Kid Hungry is working to end childhood hunger by helping launch and improve programs that give all kids the healthy food they need to thrive. This is a problem we know how to solve. No Kid Hungry is a campaign of Share Our Strength, an organization committed to ending hunger and poverty. Join us at NoKidHungry.org.
Last reviewed: October 21, 2024