The bill aims to amend and reenact section 18-5D-3 of the Code of West Virginia to establish clear guidelines for nutritionally adequate school breakfasts and lunches, aligning them with the standards set by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans. It introduces definitions for "nutritionally adequate breakfast" and "nutritionally adequate lunch," which are based on the most current meal patterns for the federal School Breakfast Program and the National School Lunch Program. The bill mandates that each county board of education must provide these meals to all students, ensuring they meet the nutritional standards outlined by the USDA, including limits on added sugars and sodium.

Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of county boards of education in implementing the Feed to Achieve initiative, which aims to provide free meals to elementary students as funds allow. It requires collaboration with the state Office of Child Nutrition to enhance participation in school meal programs and mandates reporting on the impacts of the initiative. The bill also clarifies that classroom teachers are not obligated to participate in the breakfast program as part of their regular duties. Overall, the legislation seeks to improve the nutritional quality of school meals and ensure that all students have access to healthy food options.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-5D-3