The USDA Food and Nutrition Service Final Rule on Local School Wellness Policy Implementation Under the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010:
A local school wellness policy (“wellness policy”) is a written document that guides a local educational agency’s (LEA) or school district’s efforts to establish a school environment that promotes students’ health, well-being and ability to learn.
The wellness policy requirement was established by the Child Nutrition and Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Reauthorization Act of 2004 and further strengthened by the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 (HHFKA). It requires each LEA participating in the National School Lunch Program and/or School Breakfast Program to develop a wellness policy. The final rule expands the requirements to strengthen policies and increase transparency. The responsibility for developing, implementing, and evaluating a wellness policy is placed at the local level, so the unique needs of each school under the LEA’s jurisdiction can be addressed.
Content of the Wellness Policy"
~ Specific goals for nutrition promotion and education, physical activity, and other school based activities that promote student wellness.
~ Standards and nutrition guidelines for all foods and beverages sold to students on the school campus during the school day.
~ Standards for all foods and beverages provided, but not sold, to students during the school day.
~ Policies for food and beverage marketing.
~ Description of public involvement, public updates, policy leadership, and evaluation plan.
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