“A Local Wellness Policy (LWP) is a written document of official policies that guide a local education agency (LEA) or school district’s efforts to establish a school environment that promotes students’ health, well-being and ability to learn by supporting healthy eating and physical activity (USDA). The formal document outlines school policies at the district level that support nutritional education and promotion, food and beverage marketing, physical activity and school-based activities that promote students’ wellness. The LWP is approved by the school board or governing board. Every school or local education agency participating in the federally-funded National School Lunch Program and/or the School Breakfast Program must establish a Local Wellness Policy” (Texas Department of Agriculture).

“Leveraging community resources and local partnerships supports high-quality academic and enrichment opportunities by broadening the experiences that may be typically offered to students and by expanding access to local expertise. Better aligning and utilizing these resources can also help school systems identify and access low-cost services or facilities to support learning opportunities on and off school sites. Pulling in local resources such as health and human services agencies, departments of public safety and parks and recreation, community colleges, businesses, community-based organizations, and other entities can effectively maximize opportunities for students and school systems” (U.S. Department of Education).

“School-based health care is a powerful tool for achieving health equity among children and adolescents who unjustly experience disparities in outcomes simply because of their race, ethnicity, or family income. It’s also a commonsense idea gaining currency across the country: place critically needed services like medical, behavioral, dental, and vision care directly in schools so that all young people, no matter their zip code, have equal opportunity to learn and grow” (School-based Health Alliance).

Interested in getting involved with the School Health Working Group? Email hwc@wilco.org for more information.

 

Support Staff: Healthy Williamson County team [email]