KENNEWICK, Wash. -- 42 schools in Washington state recently won national awards for improving the health of their students.
The awards were administered by the HealthierUS School Challenge a voluntary certification initiative for schools participating in the National School Lunch Program.
They were based on how the schools improve the nutritional quality of the foods served,
provide students with nutrition education, and provide students with physical education and opportunities for physical activity.
All 14 elementary schools in Kennewick were honored as well as Robertson Elementary in Yakima with a bronze honor, and $500 prize per school.
"We're really excited that all 14 of our elementary schools were able to win this award. It's a real testament to our nutrition services department and the way they collaborate with our physical education professionals in the district," said Lorraine Cooper with Kennewick Schools.
The HealthierUS School Challenge - a part of the FNS - is a voluntary national certification initiative for schools participating in the National School Lunch Program. Among other functions, it supports First Lady Michelle Obama's Let's Move! Campaign by helping schools raise healthy children.
