Join your school wellness team!

 

Wellness Guidelines

 

 

Your input will make a difference!

 

What is a Wellness Policy?

In 2004 Congress passed a law requiring every school district that uses federal dollars for school lunch or breakfast, which includes most districts, to create a local wellness policy by the start of the 2006 - 2007 school year.

The wellness policy will apply to every school in the district and can help schools improve the health of students by promoting nutritious food and physical activity through changes in school programs and environments.

The Biloxi Public School system is committed to providing a school environment that enhances learning and development of lifelong wellness practices.

To accomplish these goals:

  • Child nutrition programs comply with federal, state and local requirements and are accessible to all children.

  • Sequential and interdisciplinary nutrition education is provided and promoted.

  • Patterns of meaningful physical activity are consistent with local wellness policy goals.

  • All school-based activities are consistent with local wellness policy goals.

  • All food and beverages made available on campus (including vending, concessions, a la carte, student stores, parties and fundraising) during the school day are consistent with the current Dietary Guidelines for Americans and are consistent with wellness policy goals and, are within state approved parameters for snacks.  A snack evaluation form is available for those who want to submit an item for acceptability by clicking on the Snack Form link.

  • All foods made available on campus adhere to food safety and security guidelines.

  • The school environment is safe, comfortable, pleasing and allows ample time and space for eating meals.  Food and/or physical activity is not used as a reward or punishment.

 

What role can parents play?

The law requires school districts to involve a variety of groups in designing and carrying out their policy, including:

  • Students

  • Parents

  • Community members

  • School Board members

  • Administrators

  • School food service providers

As parents, you know your children and their needs better than anyone.  By getting involved with your local wellness team you can help create, monitor and enhance school policies that will improve their school environment.