Dawn Morris

The second week of March, Benton Community Schools celebrated National School Breakfast Week. Benny the Bobcat, alongside cheerleaders, made a special appearance at Keystone and Atkins Elementary during breakfast. Over at Norway Intermediate, Deputy Brandt greeted and served the hot breakfast to students. Nutritious food and fun were had by all. 

We all have heard that breakfast is the most important part of the day, but do you know why? In most resting adults, this means no activity is taking place except digestion and keeping the body warm, the brain uses about 20%-25% of the body’s overall energy. In a woman, this could be about 350 calories and in a man about 450. In a 5-6 year old child at rest, their brain uses an incredible 60% of their body’s energy! This is why fueling our students’ bodies and minds is so important. Studies have shown that eating breakfast leads to improved concentration, better test scores, and increased energy. All positive effects of simply making time to eat a nutritious breakfast.

The Benton Community Food Service Department has been working diligently to grow our breakfast program. We have seen an increase in participation. This can be attributed to both the no-cost meals this year, as well as striving to provide a greater variety in breakfast entree offerings. We encourage all students to stop by for breakfast and fuel their bodies and brains for the day!