Article updated: 9/4/2012 11:26 AM

Dist. 15 launches free breakfast test program

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Fourth graders from left, Naomi Hildago, Italletzy Magdaleno, Lysandra Colin and Andres Garcia eat breakfast in their classroom as part of a new universally free breakfast program being piloted at Jane Addams Elementary School in Palatine.

Bob Chwedyk | Staff Photographer

Hunter Watson, right, and Victor Lizardo, have breakfast at their desks at Jane Addams Elementary School in Palatine as part of the new universal free breakfast program.

Bob Chwedyk | Staff Photographer

Fourth graders Lysandra Colin, left, and Andres Garcia take part in a new universal free breakfast program being piloted at Jane Addams Elementary School in Palatine.

Bob Chwedyk | Staff Photographer

Bob Chwedyk/bchwedyk@dailyherald.com Fourth grader Joseph Westfall eats breakfast at his desk as part of the new universal free breakfast program being piloted at Jane Addams Elementary School in Palatine.

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For a 15-minute period before the start bell rings at 7:55 a.m., any of the 800 or so students at Jane Addams Elementary School in Palatine can grab a free meal, regardless of financial need. "Kids don't learn on empty bellies," School Nutrition Services Director Bobbie Desprat said. "We want to start the day off on a positive foot."