The Nutritional Impact and Academic Outcomes of School Based Feeding Program in Elementary Schools of Tandag City

The School-Based Feeding Program (SBFP) is crucial in addressing malnutrition and food insecurity which significantly affect students’ academic success (WHO, 2020). This DepEd initiative aimed to provide nutritional support, improve health, and foster an environment for enhanced academic engagement (Grantham-McGregor & Baker-Henningham, 2007; Department of Education, 2021; PIDS, 2022). This study examined the implementation of the School Based Feeding Program (SBFP) in Tandag City Division for school year 2023–2024 which aimed to address malnutrition, improve academic performance, enhance school attendance, and promote student well-being. The program provided nutritional support and related health interventions to improve outcomes for students. A mixed-methods approach was used that combined qualitative data from focus group discussions with 30 informants, including teachers, parents, and community stakeholders, and quantitative data from program records, terminal reports, and structured surveys.

Thematic analysis of qualitative data revealed recurring themes such as parental engagement, meal quality, infrastructure, health and nutrition, community partnerships, program management, accessibility, student engagement, logistics, and training. Quantitative findings indicated that program implementers were rated “Very Satisfactory” to “Outstanding,” highlighted their critical role. The SBFP significantly improved student energy levels, motivation, academic performance 60% of 192 severely wasted and attendance, with attendance rates rising from 96.57% to 98.86% post-implementation[*]. Additionally, the rehabilitation rate for severely wasted learners reached 65.10%, showed a notable progress. However, challenges such as inadequate facilities, occasional food preference issues, and limited parental involvement were identified.