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Wellness Policy
What is a Wellness Policy?
Pennsylvania Law requires each school participating in the National School Lunch Program and/or School Breakfast Program (including parochial schools) to develop a local wellness policy that promotes the health of students and addresses the growing problem of childhood obesity.
What does the policy do?
The Wellness Policy establishes regulations for:
• a la carte foods
• fundraisers
• vending machines
• classroom parties
• food used as rewards.
In addition to regulating food served at school, the law also mandates that wellness policies set measurable goals for:
• nutrition education
• physical activity
• other school-based activities designed to promote student wellness.
The law does not require fundraisers and concession stands that operate after the school day (food sales that are sold and picked up outside the school day, concession stands at athletic events, etc.) to be included in the wellness policy.
What are the new food and drink regulations?
The regulations address food preparation, portion size, nutritional value, sugar content and fat content of foods served at school. They are to be phased-in over a period of three years, beginning July 1, 2006. To read the complete Guidelines for Nutritional Standards, click here.
How does this affect me?
The new standards mean your child’s health and nutrition will be enhanced at school. They also mean parents will have to adjust to new requirements for the snacks and treats you send in with your child.
Click here for an Approved Snack List.
What about birthday treats?
Sandy Brainard in the cafeteria has treats that meet the required guidelines. No cupcakes, cakes, homemade cookies, etc. are permitted.
For more information:
Pennsylvania Department of Education Food and Nutrition Programs