The John Trix Elementary School in Detroit empowers kids to make healthy choices by surrounding them with a healthy school environment. “A 360-degree change” from past practices, according to Principal Wesley Ganson, and one that in 2008 earned Trix a Bronze Award from the Healthy Schools Program.
The Healthy Schools Program, part of the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, increases opportunities for students to exercise and play, puts healthy foods and beverages in vending machines and cafeterias, and increases resources for teachers and staff to become healthy role models. It provides support to schools through relationship managers, a phone hotline, online tools and e-assistance, as well as by sharing success stories and prominently recognizing schools that have made significant achievements.
RWJF has committed $28 million toward the program’s funding.