School meals’ role in reducing food insecurity has been highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. A new study of Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) state plans finds multiple ways the plans can address food insecurity and other health topics.  

An analysis of all 50 states plus D.C. examined how health and wellness provisions were prioritized in state plans and report cards required by ESSA. The University of Illinois at Chicago’s Institute for Health Research and Policy, with support from Healthy Eating Research conducted the study. Learn more.