In accordance with new federal and state guidelines, District 95 has a Wellness Plan in

place since the 2006-07 school year. In June of 2004 Congress passed a law (the Child

Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act of 2004) which requires school districts to

develop a local wellness policy. Additionally the State of Illinois passed its own similar,

more comprehensive legislation. The objectives of both policies are to improve the

school nutrition environment, promote student health and reduce childhood obesity.

The link between nutrition and learning is well documented. Healthy eating patterns are

essential for students to achieve their full academic potential, full physical and mental

growth and lifelong health and well-being. Healthy eating is demonstrably linked to a

reduction in risk for mortality and the development of many chronic diseases. Schools

and school communities have a responsibility to help students acquire the knowledge

and skills necessary to establish and maintain lifelong healthy eating patterns.

According to the U. S. Surgeon General, regular physical activity is one of the most

important things people can do to maintain and improve their physical health, mental

health, and overall well-being. Well-planned and well-implemented wellness programs

have been shown to positively influence children’s health.

The District 95 Wellness Plan follows the Illinois State Board of Education guidelines

and will encompass goals that involve nutrition education and physical activity and

nutrition guidelines for all foods and drinks served and/or sold to students during the

school day. Some of the goals may require changes in the kinds of foods offered to

students during the school day, (including classroom parties, birthday treats, fundraisers

involving foods, vending machines and a la carte cafeteria selections) an increase in

physical activity/education time and the inclusion of nutrition education. Parent

partnership will be encouraged at each school to help insure success in achieving these

goals.

The Wellness Policy is available on the District 95 webpage and available at your child’s

school’s health office. Thank you for your cooperation concerning this matter.

District Website