Has your school district adopted the required student wellness policy? Don’t forget that the Federal Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act requires that every district receiving federal funds for breakfast or lunch programs must have a policy in place by July 1, 2006. The state’s Division of Food and Nutrition will be reviewing all adopted wellness policies.
In brief, the wellness policy is designed to ensure that a district is promoting student health issues and that it has designated certain individuals to be responsible for implementing the policy. Specific topics which should be included in a student wellness policy include the following: (1) the appointment of a wellness committee composed of a cross-section of the Board, Administration, food service personnel, students, parents and members of the public; (2) the promotion of integrated nutrition education; (3) the promotion of physical activity during the school day; (4) the creation of a rigorous physical education program aligned with state standards; (5) the promotion of other school-based activities which further the goals of student health and wellness; and (6) a statement of commitment to state nutritional standards.
In the event that you have any questions about this policy or are in need of creating or revising one in advance of the July 1 deadline, please do not hesitate to contact one of our school attorneys.
