060104news.htm

HAGERSTOWN, MD (June 1, 2004) - Fountaindale Elementary School has been chosen to participate in the Maryland Meals for Achievement (MMFA) classroom breakfast program in the 2004-05 school year. Each student will have the opportunity to eat a balanced, nutritious breakfast in the classroom every morning, at no charge. Funding is provided through the federal School Breakfast Program, and through the Maryland State Department of Education.

120 Maryland schools are now part of the program, including 8 in Washington County. Fountaindale joins Bester, Cascade, Hancock, Lincolnshire, Pangborn and Winter Street Elementary Schools, along with Marshall Street School in the program.

Harvard University researchers, in evaluating MMFA, report improved academic performance, attendance and behavior. Schools with experience in the program also note fewer students complain about hunger and tiredness.