PORTSMOUTH, Va. — According to a ‘Food Research and Action Center’ study, one in six kids in America will face hunger this year.
So, Douglass Park Elementary School in Portsmouth is receiving recognition for their work to curve that statistic.
Principal Sherie Davis is finishing her first year in charge of this school. On her first day, she signed the school up for a new food challenge which was organized by the non-profit No Kid Hungry Virginia.
The concept was to encourage schools to increase participation in the district's breakfast program from October 1 through December 31, 2018.
Out of more than fourteen-hundred participating schools, Douglass Park Elementary won the gold category and one thousand dollars.
"I'm at a loss of words, for real,” said Davis.
Principal Davis said every school-day the kitchen staff put together meals to deliver to the teacher's classrooms.
That way they knew all seven-hundred students started their day off right.
"I think it mentally helps them get started with their day to start off with a hot meal every morning,” said Davis.
In addition, they brought community members like first responders and parents to promote an inclusive atmosphere throughout the year.
Teachers said they feel more connected to their students with the new morning routine.
"We're seeing better behavior they're a little bit more excited because they're full,” said Special Education teacher, Sherry Holland.
"It's really a group effort from the administration all of the way down to our custodial staff,” said Kindergarten teacher, Melva Bland.
Even though breakfast in class means extra work for staff, they quickly embraced the idea and now the recognition.
"It feels great. I love it, it feels like we're doing our job,” said the school’s Food Service Manager, Veronica Whitehead.
Portsmouth Public School District Superintendent Elie Bracy said he’s glad Dr. Davis approached the school district to bring this idea to life.
"So, we're all excited district-wide,” said Bracy.
Davis said the next step is continuing feeding the students during the summer in some way