Data Analytics for Societal Challenges: Examining Student Participation in the National School Lunch Program

Abstract

ABSTRACT Rising child hunger rates in the United States underscore the critical role of school meals in providing reliable food access for many children. This study investigates factors shaping student participation in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), aiming to support UN Sustainable Development Goal 2 of Zero Hunger amidst the COVID-19 aftermath. While the NSLP promotes student health, participation gaps persist, necessitating targeted interventions. Leveraging data analytics, this research examines socioeconomic and school-specific variables to uncover participation patterns. Focused on a major US school district, the study aims to identify factors influencing middle and high school student meal participation, offering actionable insights for decision-makers. Key findings emphasize the pivotal role of free and reduced-price meal eligibility as the most influential factor for student participation, with other factors such as meal quality, transaction frequency, operating cycle, cuisine, and weather playing a secondary role.