Dear Carteret County School Board,

As a concerned student, I urge you to take action and require free better quality school lunches in Carteret County North Carolina. It is imperative that the students have access to healthy and nutritious meals during their time at school.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), childhood obesity rates have tripled over the past 30 years. This alarming trend can be attributed, in part, to poor nutrition habits developed during childhood. By providing healthier and better quality meal options at school, we can help combat this epidemic.

Currently, many of the meals provided by schools are high in fat, sugar, and sodium. These types of foods not only contribute to obesity but also increase the risk of other health problems such as heart disease and diabetes.

Furthermore, studies have shown that proper nutrition is essential for academic success. Children who eat a balanced diet are more likely to perform better in school than those who do not.

I understand that implementing free better quality school lunches may come with a cost; however, investing in the students health now will pay off in the long run by reducing healthcare costs associated with preventable diseases.

Other states such as California have already taken steps towards providing healthier meal options for students through legislation like SB 1381 which requires schools serving low-income students provide free breakfasts after first period or before class begins. We believe it is time for Carteret County Schools to follow suit.

During covid-19 all school lunches were free and now we are paying again. The school lunches were free for 2 years so price of getting the food must not be a problem.

We urge you to prioritize your students health by requiring free better quality school lunches in Carteret County North Carolina. Thank you for your consideration on this important matter.

Sincerely,

David Landyn Foster