By John Salvatore
School lunch periods have been treated as an optional extra and need to start being valued as an every day essential component of a student’s schedule. Every student, regardless of their grade level or demanding curriculum, deserves and needs at least one dedicated lunch period each day. This change would help support their health, their focus, and their social development.
First and foremost, a proper lunch period is critical for academic performance in students. A hungry student is a distracted student. Fueling up with a nutritious meal helps provide the sustained energy for necessary concentration during afternoon lessons and testing. Cutting or shortening lunch periods in favor of more class time is valuing the quantity of classes versus the quality of learning occurring. Students will be able to make the most of their classes, given more lunch periods. Schools cannot ask students for the best if they do not provide them with the necessary resources such as a lunch.
Regarding the lack of lunch periods Sophomore Paul Van Haetsdaele said “it’s really unfortunate that some kids don’t have lunch periods. I know that for me at least I feel way more energized and focused in my classes directly after my lunch period, and more sluggish in the ones directly before.”
Furthermore, the lunch period is more about than just nutrition, it’s about well-being. It offers a vital mental break from the structure demands of the classroom. This downtime allows the brain to rest and process information, reducing stress and preventing burnout. Simply rushing through a meal or eating while walking to the next class isn’t a break, it’s just another point of stress.
When asked how he felt his lunch period impacted him socially Sophomore Samuel Lee said “I love getting to talk to all of my friends during my lunch. It’s definitely the part of the day that I get to talk to friends the most, and that social aspect is just really enjoyable. Without that in my day I think my overall happiness at school would decrease.”
Finally, lunch periods allow students to be social without the restraints of the classroom. Students can hang out with friends and converse freely and build relationships with their friends. Which is equally as important as any subject in school.
Ultimately, a guaranteed and lengthy lunch period is a fundamental necessity for a successful learning environment. School administrators should prioritize this time ensuring every student has an opportunity to eat, rest, and socialize, setting them up for a healthier, more focused, and productive day.
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