Table 3.
Themes of Open‐Ended Responses (N = 60) and Representative Quotes From School Staff Members Regarding What is Needed to Continue School Meal Programs for the 2020‐2021 School Year
| Theme (# quotes) | Representative Quote | Participant(s) Details |
|---|---|---|
| Program is going well and should continue (17) | “This system has worked out very well and I think the families appreciate the help.” | Black female, food service staff |
| Greater selection and variety, or more food offered (12) | “Feedback from families has indicated that they would like a better selection of foods offered.”; “I think that they should offer a little bit more food. I do not think the kids are getting full.”; “More options for students with diet restrictions.”; “Providing more hot meals that can be heated at home.” | White female, teacher; Black female, food service staff; Black female, food service staff; Black female, teacher |
| Transportation issues (11) | “Deliveries to homes/centers should be implemented to assist with families without transportation and/or if parents/guardians are at work during the day.” | Black female, administrator |
| Need more locations (6) | “They should be offered at all schools locations, not just a select few.” | Black female, administrator |
| Meals offered more frequently or at better times (6) | “We should offer different hours to pick up food at certain locations instead of having food available from 11 am to 2 pm at every location. Many parents cannot pick up food until after work. Some locations should have food available for pick up from 4 to 6 p.m.” | White female, teacher |
| Need better communication and ability to participate (3) | “I know that filling the application might be crucial but some of our families do not know how to do it on line or even do it by phone so they do not have access to the meal program.” | Hispanic female, teacher |
| More training, funding, and safety (3) | More training and social distancing”; “At this point, just need my staff to safe and healthy. Wear mask everybody.” | Black female, food service staff; Black female, food service staff |
| Free or reduced costs (2) | “It should be free to all families and families should not have to register to get a free meal.” | Black female, other staff member |