A local school district has seen a growing issue with food insecurity among its students, but thanks to a $45,000 grant from ADM Cares, they are working to change that. 

Cheryl Warner, Superintendent of Warrensburg-Latham Schools, indicates her two major obstacles are a decreasing amount of grant funding and food insecurity in students. She says that almost half of the students in her district qualify for the free and reduced lunch program.

Warner says if a student is hungry or doesn't feel safe in their environment, then their mind is not focused on learning. She is hopeful the grant will help relieve the stressors that create major learning obstacles for her students. 

Distressed or struggling students can also be difficult for staff. Warner explains educators are already forced to stretch out their budget to make ends meet in their classroom, and some even pay for supplies out of their own pockets. She does not want teachers to be forced to address issues of food insecurity over educating the children. 

School Board President Tory Williams was very involved in securing the grant for the district through her professional position with ADM. 

Learn more about Warrensburg-Latham Schools by visiting wl.k12.il.us or by finding them on Facebook.