Madison, Wis.–More children are able to access to school breakfast programs across the state according to the latest School Breakfast Scorecard.

During the 2012-2013 school year, the number of Wisconsin schools offering school breakfast programs increased by 4.3 percent according to a report by the Food Research and Action Center (FRAC).

The number of Wisconsin schools (public and private) participating in the school breakfast program increased by over 75 schools in the 2012-2013 school year.

“This means that more children are able to access breakfast programs more often, whether they qualify for free, reduced-price, or full price meals,” says Amy Korth, nutrition education and school breakfast specialist with the University of Wisconsin-Extension. “Children with access to these school meal programs, have the opportunity to start their day with the nutrients they need for a day of learning.”

Research in the area of child nutrition shows that children who eat breakfast demonstrate an increased ability to learn and improved behavior in the classroom. Studies have also shown that eating breakfast improves mood, decreases the risk of being overweight, and improves the overall quality of a child’s diet.

“Evidence shows that breakfast is extremely beneficial for kids,” Korth says. “Schools continue to make great strides in increasing access to school breakfast programs. These programs will continue to have a positive impact on the academic performance and nutritional health of school age children in Wisconsin.”

In addition to the link between academics and breakfast consumption, research suggests that students who have access to school breakfast tend to have lower rates of absenteeism and tardiness. “When a child can focus on learning in the classroom instead of focusing on their hungry stomach, they are more likely to have better academic outcomes,” explains Korth.

While participation in the breakfast program is rising, many Wisconsin children still miss breakfast on a daily basis, due to lack of time, limited household income, or because they do not have access to breakfast at school.

“About 74 percent of Wisconsin schools participate in the National School Lunch and School Breakfast programs. Although this is lower than the national average of about 90 percent, we have been seeing positive growth over the past few years,” says Korth.

Despite the continued increases in school participation in breakfast programs, Wisconsin ranks 49th nationally in the number of schools that offer breakfast. With continued support from schools learning more about breakfast programs and how the program benefits students, this rank will improve.

See the latest FRAC School Breakfast report.

Get more information on Wisconsin School Breakfast programs.