In September 1995, the New York State Education Department mandated that every school district institute the National Breakfast Program.

The West Babylon School District conducted a survey back in October of 1994 (prior to the implementation deadline), to determine if the community's parents would be interested in utilizing such services. The results of the survey indicated that the community residents had no immediate need for such a program.

School districts are permitted to apply for an exemption if it is determined that such a program would be an unnecessary service in its schools. The West Babylon School District therefore opted to request exemption status for the 1995-96 school year. In subsequent years, the district continued to apply for and received exemption status.

According to Chapter 614 of New York State Law, which pertains to the National School Lunch Program, school districts that choose to apply for such an exemption must do so annually. In compliance with state law, the West Babylon School District once again surveyed parents in May 2006. According to the results of the survey, projected participation in the program is minimal, therefore, implementation would not be warranted.

West Babylon's administrators have therefore decided to apply for an exemption for the 2006-2007 school year. Any questions should be directed to Adrianne Goldenbaum, school food service director at 631-321-3038 ext. 3042.