A healthy school nutrition environment is one where nutrition and physical activity are taught and supported in the classroom, the dining room, and throughout the school (JADA 2008; 108(6): 1038 – 1047). It provides positive messages that help students develop healthy eating and physical activity habits. It also provides an opportunity to practice these healthy habits.

This environment provides the opportunity to make choices from healthy food selections in the school dining area and throughout the school, the opportunity to eat in pleasant and comfortable surroundings, and the opportunity for physical activity that is fun.

A school that provides these positive messages and opportunities teaches lessons not only in class but throughout the school environment students experience each day.

Schools can make a difference. Schools can create an environment that promotes learning and can teach good eating and physical activity patterns for long-term health.

One means by which schools facilitate a healthy school environment is with their Local Wellness Policies. Federal law has required the adoption of local wellness policies by all local education agencies to address obesity and promote healthy eating and physical activity through healthy school environments. The Local Wellness Policies require schools to set goals for nutrition education, physical activity, and all foods available on campus and other school based activities to promote student wellness.

Resources

• Team Nutrition Local Wellness Policies
• Action for Healthy Kids
• CDC Healthy Schools Healthy Youth
• CDC School Health Index
• Eat Smart Move More North Carolina