Some of the programs in schools are now both innovative and fun and they bring out the creativity that helps motivate a child to really learn.

One grade school program is showing that sometimes the best way to a students head is through their stomach.

Louisa East Elementary cafeteria is usually maybe half full, but on Breakfast with the Arts Day, the cafeteria is packed.

This is when student performers, many of them part of the gifted and talented program, play recorders, rock teachers and parents with Jingle Bell Rock, hammer out a hit from High School Musical and get the opportunity to creatively express themselves.

“They don't always get to do that in class. This is an outlet-- is fun and doesn't cost anything,” music teacher Rowena Borders said.

“For my daughter and so many others, this is a great opportunity to create,” parent and teacher Kim Fitch said.

When these young performers entertain the early morning elementary school crowd, they say more Breakfast with the Arts patrons come to breakfast.

“Some don't get to eat at home. It's good to get them home with a full belly,” cafeteria worker Brenda Perkins said.

“We love it, the performers love it-- it's so much fun,” student Asia Meeks said.

“It keeps my brain working,” performer Laken Fitch said.

Teachers say Layne Smith struggled in class before he found he could easily play music.

“There’s such a difference and the kids love him to play,” Borders said.

Layne Smith, who practices every day, is now excelling in class says his rewards are pretty simple.

“It brings smiles to their faces and it's what I like to do,” Layne Smith said.

They do say breakfast is the most important meal of the day. At Louisa East they say about a third of the students that show up for breakfast do not get any breakfast at home. They are planning at least a few more Breakfast with the Arts mornings in 2008.