National Nutrition Month and School Breakfast Programs: Fueling Student Success

March is National Nutrition Month®, a time to focus on the vital role nutrition plays in our daily lives. This year, the focus extends beyond March with the celebration of Global Child Nutrition Month in April. Downey Unified School District (DUSD) recognizes the strong connection between good nutrition and student achievement, particularly highlighting the importance of school breakfast and lunch programs.

The Power of Breakfast

Starting the day with a nutritious breakfast is crucial for students. Research shows that students who eat breakfast demonstrate improved concentration and information retention [1]. A morning meal likewise contributes to better memory, mood, and energy levels. Children who participate in school breakfast programs tend to consume more fruits, whole grains, and milk.

Downey Unified is committed to ensuring all students have access to a healthy start. Currently, all DUSD students can receive a free breakfast at school every day.

Lunch: Sustaining Energy and Focus

Just as important as breakfast, a balanced lunch provides the sustained energy and nutrients growing bodies and active minds need. A nutritious lunch helps students maintain energy throughout the afternoon, stay focused in class, and support overall growth and development.

Nutrition Standards in School Meals

School lunches in the United States are required to meet strict federal nutrition guidelines. These guidelines include limits on sodium, age-appropriate calorie levels, and requirements for incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins [4].

Downey Unified goes beyond these federal standards. The district’s Food and Nutrition Services team collaborates with a registered dietitian to carefully plan menus that are both nutritious and appealing to students. Recent offerings have included apple pears, cara cara oranges, persimmons, and oroblanco grapefruits, providing a diverse range of flavors and nutritional benefits [3].

Fresh, Locally-Sourced Produce

Downey Unified has partnered with Old Grove Orange, a group of over 15 Southern California growers, to bring fresh, locally-sourced produce to students [3]. Each week, a new fruit is introduced across the district’s schools, exposing students to a variety of options and encouraging them to explore new tastes and textures.

National School Breakfast Week 2026

National School Breakfast Week (NSBW) will take place from March 2-6, 2026, and will focus on the theme “The Quest for School Breakfast!” [4] This event highlights the importance of the School Breakfast Program and the dedicated professionals who work to ensure students have a nutritious start to their day.

To view menus and locate more information about Downey Unified’s Food and Nutrition Services, please visit: web.dusd.net/serviciosalimentarios