Impact of Universal Free School Meals on Student Behavior in Europe
Who in Europe offers free school meals and can they improve classroom behaviour?
Euronews
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A recent study indicates that universal free school meals can significantly improve student behavior, with reductions in out-of-school suspensions by 10% for primary students and 6% for secondary students in the U.S. European countries have varied approaches to free school meals, with some offering universal access while others do not.
- 01Universal free meal programs in the U.S. led to a 10% reduction in out-of-school suspensions for primary students and 6% for secondary students.
- 02The study analyzed data from 95,000 schools in the U.S. between the 2011-2012 and 2017-2018 academic years.
- 03Countries like Finland, Sweden, and Estonia provide universal free school meals, while Denmark and the Netherlands do not have nationwide programs.
- 04The strongest reduction in suspensions was observed in schools that previously served fewer low-income students.
- 05In 2022, 24.7% of children in the EU were at risk of poverty or social exclusion.
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A study conducted by researchers in the United States and South Korea has found that universal free school meals can lead to improved student behavior, particularly in reducing out-of-school suspensions. The analysis covered data from 95,000 schools in the U.S. from the 2011-2012 to 2017-2018 academic years, revealing that primary school suspensions decreased by 10% and secondary school suspensions by 6%. This disciplinary measure, which excludes students from classes, is prevalent in countries like the UK and Spain, but banned in Sweden. The findings suggest that universal free meals serve not only as a nutritional policy but also as a means to enhance school climate and equity, especially in schools that previously catered to fewer low-income students. In Europe, the provision of free school meals varies significantly; countries such as Finland, Sweden, and Estonia offer universal access, while Denmark and the Netherlands lack nationwide programs. The study highlights the importance of addressing food insecurity, as 24.7% of children in the EU were at risk of poverty or social exclusion in 2022.
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The findings suggest that implementing universal free school meals could lead to better student behavior and a more inclusive school environment, particularly benefiting low-income students.
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