Alliance for a Healthier Generation Healthy Schools Program
Concerned about childhood obesity? Alliance for a Healthier Generation was founded by the American Heart Association and Clinton Foundation as a response to the growing rate of childhood obesity.
The Healthy Schools Program recognizes schools that create healthier school environments by promoting physical activity and healthy eating among students and staff. To earn a Healthy Schools Program National Recognition Award, schools must meet the prerequisite number of criteria in seven wellness categories:
- Systems
- School Meals
- Competitive Foods and Beverages
- Health Education
- Employee Wellness
- Physical Education
- Student Wellness
Fast Fact: More than 450 Maryland schools have joined the Healthy Schools Program and 71 schools have earned a National Recognition Award for their efforts!
Healthier US School ChallengeWant to help make your school healthier? The Healthier US School Challenge (HUSSC) is a voluntary certification recognizing those schools enrolled in the USDA Food and Nutrition Service’s Team Nutrition initiative that have created healthier school environments by:
- Improving the quality of the foods served,
- Providing students with nutrition education, and
- Providing students with physical education and opportunities for physical activity.
Depending on your school’s level of participation, it could be awarded a bronze, silver, gold or gold award of distinction. You can read tips from award-winning schools on how to get started, create healthier menus, energize students, engage the community and fund the changes here.
Fast Fact: 34 elementary schools in Harford County have achieved a HUSCC award. Click here to see if yours is one of them!
