Morning game changer
Cypress Fairbanks Independent School District recently implemented coffee into the daily breakfast routine of high school students at Cypress Ranch High School. Grabbing the attention of students who previously had little interest in school food, CFISD coffee has easily become a morning favorite for many students, offering an energizing start to the day that appeals to students who might otherwise skip breakfast.
How many teens really do consume caffeine?
A study conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that 70 percent of teenagers consume caffeine weekly, and 30 to 40 percent of those students consume their caffeine fix by drinking coffee. At Cypress Ranch, students can now enjoy cold brew iced coffee that can be combined with chocolate or regular milk in the mornings from 6:45 to 7:15 a.m. Many students in the mornings go to Starbucks or Dutch Bros to get coffee, however this can hinder the amount of time students have to prepare and get to school on time while also draining their bank accounts as the prices of daily coffee adds up eventually.
Caffeine in moderation
While it is common to consume caffeine in the mornings, it is important to remember that moderation is key. Excessive caffeine intake can lead to negative health effects such as anxiety, sleep disturbance, and increased heart rate. Regular caffeine intake can also lead to dependence and addictions. When not supplied with caffeine, the addicted consumer may feel withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, irritability and fatigue. Health experts generally recommended that teens ages 12- 18 limit their caffeine intake to 100 mg to 200 mg per day. This is roughly equivalent to one 8-ounce cup of coffee or two 12-ounce cans of soda
Opinions of Peers
The introduction of coffee into the school breakfast routine has sparked mixed opinions among students. For some, the coffee has become a beloved addition to their daily morning routine, while others feel it is a below average option compared to their usual caffeine choices.
“I’d say it has a soothing flavor,” sophomore Melvin Huff says. “The taste is just mind-blowing.”
Huff praises the efforts behind bringing coffee to Cypress Ranch, expressing his gratitude for the initiative.
However, on the contrary, some students don’t share the same enthusiasm, and agree that the coffee is of poor quality.
“I think the flavor is just off,” junior Gabby Mancilla says. “It tastes like something I could buy at a gas station.”
Mancilla also notes her disappointment with the lack of creamers, wishing the school would offer a variety of options beyond just milk.
Popularity vs. Quality
As the popularity of school-provided coffee grows, CFISD has tapped into something that resonates with many students. However, opinions about the quality of the coffee remain divided. For those who enjoy it, they have added it to their daily morning routine. For others, there’s still room for improvement. With moderation and quality in mind, it is important for both students and school officials to find a balance that ensures the coffee is as enjoyable as it is beneficial.
