Our schools play a pivotal role in shaping our children's future, yet unbeknownst to many, seemingly harmless elements in school meals can drastically affect their educational experiences and health. Scientific studies have consistently highlighted the negative impact of artificial food dyes, especially on children with ADHD and ASD. These synthetic additives can incite hyperactivity, mood swings, sleep disturbances, heightened anxiety, and sensory overload. Such effects hinder not only the affected child's growth and learning but also influence the dynamics of the entire classroom.

The time for change is now. Removing artificial food dyes from Pitt County Schools' menus and classrooms can lead to significant improvements in behavior, attention spans, and overall quality of life for students. It offers a foundation for a more conducive learning environment where every child can thrive and focus.

We urge the Pitt County School system to take immediate action to eliminate artificial food dyes from school meals. Every child deserves a safe and supportive educational environment, free from harmful additives, where they can excel and enjoy their formative years to the fullest extent.

Please join us in advocating for our children's health and future by signing this petition. Together, we can create a positive change and ensure brighter, healthier futures for all students in our community.

My family's experience is a testament to the impact food dyes can have on a household and a teacher. Our son becomes physically ill, displaying symptoms such as stomach pain and vomiting, hyperactivity, aggression, and uncontrollable behavior when ingesting synthetic food dyes. He is basically a different person. My sister, a dedicated 1st-grade teacher in the Pitt County School system, is facing significant challenges in her classroom. A handful of special children in her care, whom she adores, struggle with behavioral and attention issues that may be exacerbated by their consumption of food dyes. These issues not only rob them of precious learning time but also induce stress and anxiety in the classroom environment. Please help us advocate for change that will impact both the children + teachers + parents in our community, and create a learning environment that fosters a more calm + focused atmosphere to enhance learning + positively impact the health of our next generation.