Willow Park School breakfast program helps kids start the day off right
At the Black Gold School Division, we pride ourselves in promoting safe, caring, and inclusive schools that respect diversity and foster a sense of belonging. An excellent example of this is the daily student breakfast program run by staff and volunteers in partnership with Breakfast Clubs of Canada at Willow Park School in Leduc.
“Typically, we feed about 50-80 kids a day,” said Assistant Principal Tarynne Cable, who helps organize the program. “If the kids are hungry, then they are not learning and disruptive behaviors tend to increase,” she added. “We focus on helping to meet the needs of kids so that they are ready to learn and in a good headspace to start the day.”
Another benefit Cable sees is the early morning socialization and relationship building that goes on among students and staff at the breakfast tables. “It is my favorite part of the day. We get to really build positive and trusting relationships with the kids, offer a kind word or two, and share a comforting meal.”
The Breakfast Club of Canada provides funding and other support for central and northern Alberta schools for sustainable breakfast programs. Carmen Siu, program coordinator, has been working with Willow Park school since 2022. “We want to help ensure that no child goes hungry,” she said. It’s never just about nutrition, it’s about creating community in the school and allowing for opportunities for connection.”