Implementation of School-Based Feeding Program and Its Effect on the Physical Growth and Academic Performance

Abstract

This study entitled “Implementation of School-Based Feeding Program and Its Effect on Physical Growth and Academic Performance” of the beneficiaries who were enrolled in the public schools of Sta. Maria, District, Province of Pangasinan for the school years 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 across the following variables: sex, age, body mass index before and after the implementation, and general weighted average before and after its implementation. The study employed the survey research design and obtained its data from both primary and secondary sources wherein the primary data was obtained through structured questionnaire administered to seventy-five (75) beneficiaries which were utilized as main instruments in gathering data and supported by related literature and studies. The data gathered were properly recorded, tallied, tabulated, interpreted, and further analyzed using statistical tools namely frequency, percentages, mean, standard deviation, coefficient of variation, mean difference, degrees of freedom, standard error, and p-value. In order for accomplish the goals of school-based feeding programs, it is recommended that students do not skip their meals offered by the coordinators; that coordinators should unceasingly evaluate what needs be done and enhanced to better know the challenges and problems affecting the level of physical growth and academic performance of the beneficiaries under the implementation of the program, school heads should also tap the social workers, stakeholders, donors and community at large in participating in the program, and that future researchers include other variables such as level of quality education, instructional media, family follow-ups, educational facilities of the school, health status, and factors that may affect the program participation of the beneficiaries.