Free breakfast for all at one St. Louis area school

    The Mehlville School District, on the outskirts of St. Louis, says too many kids are going without a good morning meal to start their day. So at Beasley Elementary, where more than half the kids already qualify for federal meal assistance, they’ve taken a big step. Everyone eats breakfast when they arrive at school. There is no charge.
    District officials say there are a number of reasons it’s necessary, particularly at a school with the demographics of Beasley. Many of the families are struggling. While some 60% qualify for assistance, many more need are very close, and for all intents and purposes need the help just as much. Will the program be expanded? District officials hope so. But paying the bill will make that tough.