We provide nutritionally balanced, low-cost or free meals for students each school day through federally assisted meal programs. Children who are hungry find it hard to stay alert and participate in class, so we help close the readiness gap with a good breakfast before school begins. We also plan lunches that provide one-third of the recommended dietary allowance for school-age children. Our menus include a daily variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, low-fat milk, and whole-grain products. Also, we made changes in food specifications and preparation to lower fat, sodium, and sugar content.