State Board Meeting - March
State Board of Education Meeting Mar. 11-12: View Agenda | Watch LIVE
School Breakfast Program
The School Breakfast Program helps students start their day with a healthy meal. Eating breakfast at school supports learning, attendance and overall well-being.
Program Requirements
Sponsors participating in the School Breakfast Program receive funding based on the number of reimbursable meals served. Meals must meet SBP meal pattern requirements to qualify for reimbursement.
Breakfast must be served at or near the beginning of the school day. To request approval to serve meals after 10am, complete the Extended Meal Time Waiver Form.
The point of sale must be located at the end of the serving line to ensure all meals are reimbursable. If this isn’t possible, request approval through the Non-Traditional Point of Sale Request Form to place it earlier in the line.
The SBP has additional requirements to ensure the program runs smoothly and meets federal and state requirements. Sponsors must determine student eligibility, plan and serve meals that meet nutrition standards, source food, supplies, and services, manage finances, count and claim meals accurately, uphold civil rights guidelines, implement wellness policies, and ensure food safety. For more details, visit the Manage Program Operations webpage.
Breakfast After the Bell Nutrition Program
Passed in 2013, Colorado’s Breakfast After the Bell Nutrition Program ensures schools with 70% or more students eligible for free or reduced-price meals offer all students a free breakfast after the school day begins. The program helps more students start their day with a healthy meal.
View sites mandated to participate:
Start Smart Nutrition Program
In 2007, Colorado eliminated the $.30 co-pay for reduced-price breakfast for all students. Eligible schools receive an additional $.30 per meal in state reimbursement for each reduced-price breakfast served.
Tips to Increase Breakfast Participation
- Make sure students have enough time to eat breakfast.
- Use share tables to cut down on food waste and offer extra items to students who may need them.
- Serve breakfast after the bell with options like:
- Breakfast in the classroom.
- Grab and Go stations in hallways or the cafeteria.
- Second Chance Breakfast during homeroom or first period.
Policy, Guidance, & Resources
How to Apply
Application approval can take up to two weeks. Sponsors can submit claims once the application is approved. Applications are due mid-Sept each year.
How to Claim
Claims are due 60 days after the end of each month.
Program Outreach
Share outreach materials with families and staff to raise awareness and boost student participation.