School Wellness
Schools must be part of the solution to the childhood obesity epidemic. They serve meals and snacks to millions of children each day, and for many of them, schools represent their best opportunity for healthy, nutritious meals. They also are ideal places to educate students about nutrition and promote physical activity, offering a safe environment with playgrounds, athletic fields, and gymnasiums.¹
Schools and Obesity
We believe school wellness is an important component to reversing the childhood obesity epidemic because:
- Colorado is one of the only states that does not require mandatory physical education in public schools
- Vending machines in schools are often a source of unhealthy snacks and beverages
- The majority of public schools' breakfast and lunch programs do not offer healthy foods
- Nutrition education is not well represented in the public school curriculum
- Poor nutrition and low levels of physical activity are associated with poor academic achievement
Our Focus
To address obesity through schools, we must focus on both nutrition and physical activity by working to:
- Promote physical activity in Colorado's public schools
- Work with school districts to improve breakfast and lunch programs
- Support efforts that improve beverage and nutrition standards
- Identify and promote nutrition education curriculums
Sources
¹ Action for Healthy Kids. "A Mission Becomes a Mandate: Campaign for School Wellness"; 2006