Identification:

• Observation: Teachers, school nurses, and other staff can be trained to observe students for signs of malnutrition. These signs can include:
• Fatigue and lack of energy
• Difficulty concentrating
• Frequent illness
• Poor growth
• Pale skin
• Irritability
• Screening: Regular health screenings can help identify students who are at risk of malnutrition. These screenings can include:
• Height and weight measurements to calculate Body Mass Index (BMI). A low BMI for age can indicate undernutrition.
• Blood tests to check for anemia or other nutrient deficiencies.
• Questionnaires about dietary habits and food security.
• Parent/Guardian Communication: Involving parents or guardians is crucial. Schools can send home questionnaires or host meetings to gather information about a student's home environment and eating habits.

Resolution:

• School Meal Programs: Providing nutritious meals at school is a critical step. These programs should offer a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. (Source: USDA Food and Nutrition Service)
• Nutrition Education: Educating students about healthy eating habits can empower them to make better food choices. This can be integrated into the curriculum or offered as extracurricular activities.
• Food Banks and Pantries: Connecting families with local food banks and pantries can help address food insecurity at home.
• Supplemental Nutrition Programs: Providing access to programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) can help families afford nutritious food. (Source: USDA SNAP)
• Individualized Support: Students identified as malnourished may require individualized support from a registered dietitian or other healthcare professional. This support can include developing a meal plan and providing nutrition counseling.
• Collaboration: Addressing malnutrition requires collaboration between schools, families, healthcare providers, and community organizations.