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There may be no such thing as a free lunch — but two local school districts are now offering free breakfast, funded by federal and state aid.

Franklin and Middletown schools have both began taking part in the universal breakfast program, a federal subsidy program that reimburses schools for serving breakfast to all children, regardless of income.

A pilot federal program now allows schools who take advantage of it to provide breakfast for all students — meaning that all children get the benefits of eating breakfast before school and children on free and reduced lunch are not singled out for their participation, according to local officials.

Students choose from different cereal bars and a juice, white or chocolate milk.

"I think it's wonderful," said Superintendent Doug Lantz. "I think it should even help with our academics and testing."

Franklin initiated the program at its five elementary schools this year, and is considering expanding to the early childhood center at Hampton Bennett, as well.

"I like it a lot," said Cheryl Wahley, mother of a third-grade Pennyroyal Elementary student. "We're usually too much in a hurry in the morning, and this way I know she'll get something."

Middletown schools are offering the program at Wildwood, Rosa Parks and Verity, and could open it up to other schools throughout the year, said Cindy DeZarn, director of food services for Sodexho, the district's food service operation.

"It's definitely really working in those schools," she said.

Verity and Wildwood schools both serve the lunches in the classroom. Rosa Parks allows children to stop in the cafeteria to pick up breakfast when they arrive at school, she said.

Children who eat breakfast closer to class-time score better on standardized tests, according to the Food Research and Action Center. Behavioral and academic problems are also more common among children experiencing hunger, according to the national nonprofit organization.