Promising Indications of Changes in Children’s Health

According this report, there are promising indications that when schools implement the Healthy Schools Program, students’ weight, diet, and physical activity improve. In a sample of 21 randomly selected schools participating in the Healthy Schools Program, the evaluators surveyed children in grades 5 through 12 about their diet and physical activity, and measured their body mass index were found primarily among middle school students.

The evaluation found that schools that accessed and participated in more training and technical assistance made the most progress in implementing policies and programs that support healthy eating and regular physical activity among students. The findings have implications for school-based obesity prevention policies being considered and implemented nationwide.