We developed a short survey using the Qualtrics software. It consisted of several of multiple choice questions to former and current NYC public school students to assess their view on the free meal selection in New York City schools.

Our target population was the immediate circle of individuals that were found around social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, and LinkedIn. Thus, most of our data collection was derived from students currently in CUNY or those who previously attended a New York City public school.

Aside from our survey, we also used data already collected by the New York City Department of Education to further understand public opinion (this data was not included in the Results section). Since we both have siblings who currently attend public school, we interviewed them for additional data on food quality.

Overall, the mentioned methodology was used to demonstrate differences between school food quality and academic performance, as well as devise potential policy alterations.