Non-instructional departments in school districts play a crucial role in student success. When these departments commit to service excellence, they contribute to positive instructional and learning outcomes. Tarrant City Schools in Alabama offers a compelling example of this through their Child Nutrition Services department.
Research demonstrates that students who eat a healthy breakfast at school are more likely to attend regularly, achieve higher proficiency in math, and stay on track for graduation (No Kid Hungry). The Food Research and Action Center (FRAC) further supports these findings, highlighting the impact of nutrition on student achievement.
In Spring 2012, Tarrant City Schools introduced a universal breakfast program, which led to a district-wide increase in participation. Tarrant Elementary School saw participation rise from 54% to an impressive 95%. The following year, the district expanded its efforts to provide free breakfast and lunch for all students, resulting in the largest increase in lunch participation at Tarrant High School. These efforts directly correlated with an increase in academic performance across the district.
Motivated by First Lady Michelle Obama’s call to “create a culture where our kids ask for healthy options instead of resisting them,” Tarrant City Schools’ Child Nutrition Program launched the “Keep Calm and Live Healthy” initiative. This program engaged students in promoting healthy eating and overall wellness.
The district’s success in boosting meal participation at all grade levels has not gone unnoticed. The Alabama Association of School Boards (AASB) recently recognized Tarrant City Schools as a model for Best Practices and Innovations in non-instructional K-12 departments. The story of their journey will be highlighted at an upcoming AASB luncheon, celebrating the hard work and commitment of the district’s leaders, teachers, staff, and students.
Dr. Shelly Mize, Superintendent of Tarrant City Schools, remains dedicated to providing students with nutritious food choices and a high-quality education that prepares them for success in college and careers. Her commitment aligns with the district’s mission of fostering “learning, service, and success.” You can explore more about Tarrant City Schools and their initiatives on their website.
As leaders in education, it’s vital to recognize that every department—whether instructional or non-instructional—has a direct impact on student achievement. By aligning their goals with the district’s vision, leaders in all roles, including facilities, transportation, and nutrition services, can create lasting, positive change. Tarrant City Schools’ “Keep Calm and Live Healthy” initiative is a powerful reminder of how a unified approach can make a meaningful difference in students’ lives, enhancing both their learning experiences and overall well-being.