Originally published Sept. 18, 2019 by SurfKY News.
Two schools in the Daviess County Public Schools district have been named to the 2019 list of America’s Healthiest Schools by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, receiving national recognition for their commitment to students’ health and well-being.
A total of 355 schools nationwide were selected based on a rigorous set of criteria – from availability of nutritious foods to access to quality physical education opportunities – as part of Healthier Generation’s Healthy Schools Program. Meadow Lands and West Louisville elementary schools, serving a combined total of about 920 students, are among only 19 schools in Kentucky to receive this recognition.
MLES and WLES have focused on creating a healthier environment for both students and staff with combined efforts of health and physical education and school nutrition.
“Our entire community of parents, teachers, students and staff are united around the importance of creating a healthy school,” said MLES principal Kevin Lowe. “We’re honored to receive this recognition from the Alliance for a Healthier Generation and remain committed to advancing our school health improvement efforts even further over the coming years.”
WLES principal Nathan Satterly said, “We wanted to find ways to assist students with being physically fit so we emphasized physical education, proper nutrition and active play throughout our day.”
Physical education teachers Amy Bouchard (MLES) and Cliff Jackson (WLES) played key roles in developing strategies that qualified their schools for this national designation. “Movement plays such an important role in education,” Bouchard explained. “Meadow Lands is always looking for ways to increase physical activity throughout the school day. We are very thankful that our PTO supports our efforts to provide movement opportunities for our students.”
All of America’s Healthiest Schools meet or exceed federal nutrition standards for school meals and snacks; offer breakfast daily; incorporate physical activity before, during or after regular school hours; implement district wellness policies and update progress annually; and involve parents and community members in decision-making.
“The Healthy Schools Programs has served over 42,000 schools. Each one recognizes the academic, social and behavioral benefits of prioritizing student health,” said Brian Weaver, chief program officer at the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. “We’re proud to recognize the exceptional efforts of the Daviess County Public Schools district for serving as a best-in-class example of what it means to create healthier environments for both students and staff.”
Seeking IHT Spirit System information?
