Cincinnati Public Schools received recognition for the 2021-2022 Breakfast & Beyond from the Ohio School Breakfast Challenge for the fifth year. CPS was recognized for their excellence, innovative and collaborative approach to maximize student participation and access to the school meal programs.
"We're honored to receive this award for the fifth time," said Jessica Shelly, director of student dining services. "Over the last year we have collaborated with staff and community partners to provide for the nutritional needs of our students including introducing Grab-n-Go breakfast from kiosks for students to eat in the classroom."
CPS received a "Super Star" medallion signifying our distinguished work in serving meals for Breakfast & Beyond. Over the last year, breakfast participation has increased by 12 percent and lunch by 40 percent. Meals are always provided free of charge to our students. CPS was recognized by the Ohio School Breakfast Challenge partners, Ohio education associations and their membership, and other education, health and child focused organizations.
The Ohio School Breakfast Challenge's mission is to increase access and participation in the School Breakfast & School Meal Programs, ensuring Ohio students start each day ready to learn. The Ohio Department of Education, American Dairy Association Mideast, Children’s Hunger Alliance and Ohio School Nutrition Association are proud sponsors of the Ohio School Breakfast Challenge.
Cincinnati Public Schools is the nation's first large school district to offer lunches to students, starting in 1898 and provides a monthly menu on SchoolCafe.