healthy schools

The new vending machine sat unnoticed as students rushed past its baby carrots, yogurt smoothies and hummus to neighbors dispensing Snapple, Doritos, Goldfish and Cheez-It. The lunch period was nearly over before a potential customer stopped to check out its offerings. No sale.

Perth Amboy (N.J.) Public Schools appears to be an exception in a state in which most school districts serve breakfast to a fraction of its eligible students, including districts that have a high concentrations of children from low-income families.