Survey Finds Half of Teachers Expect to Buy Food for Students This School Year

"Half of educators expect to purchase food for their students this school year, according to a recent survey from the nation's second-largest teachers union. The American Federation of Teachers published the findings Sept. 10 after research company Grow Progress surveyed 705 members about classroom expenses and federal education policy changes. The union also collected personal insights about student hunger, an issue that previous studies have found is prominent at school and could be impacted by impending government cuts to food assistance programs."

"The most recent data available shows that nearly 18% of households with children across the nation struggled with food insecurity in 2023. Research published by the national nonprofit No Kid Hungry in March found that 92% of teachers have taken some type of action to address student hunger at school. Nearly half personally provide food in the classroom, while 29% have purchased food for students to eat outside of class."

The American Federation of Teachers released survey results from Grow Progress after polling 705 members about classroom expenses and federal education policy changes. Half of educators expect to purchase food for their students this school year. No Kid Hungry found 92% of teachers have taken action to address student hunger, with nearly half providing food in classrooms and 29% buying food for students outside class. The U.S. Department of Agriculture reported nearly 18% of households with children struggled with food insecurity in 2023. Educators frequently pay out of pocket for supplies and food, and potential cuts to food assistance could worsen needs.

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