SD DOE Press Release

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For Immediate Release: April 7, 2009
Contact: Mary Stadick Smith - (605) 773-7228

Award recognizes schools committed to student health

Gov. Mike Rounds challenges South Dakota schools to participate in the 6th annual Governor’s Healthy School Award competition. Winning schools receive $5,000.

“Teaching healthy lifestyle habits at a young age is one way to combat the nation’s obesity rate as well as other health risks,” Gov. Rounds said. “If young people understand the importance of being healthy now, we all benefit in terms of less disease and lower health-care costs. It’s a win-win situation.”

The Governor’s Healthy School Award recognizes schools that demonstrate leadership in overall health programming, including the following areas: nutrition services, health services, health education, physical education, counseling services, family and community involvement, and health promotion.

Winners are selected in four categories: elementary school, middle school/junior high, high school, and school district. Up to three finalists are selected at each level.

Last year’s winners were Knollwood Elementary School in Rapid City, Mitchell Middle School, Mitchell High School, and Brandon Valley School District.

Schools can download an application from the Department of Education’s Web site at www.doe.sd.gov. Applications are due May 29, 2009. Winners will be announced fall 2009.

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http://doe.sd.gov/oess/schoolhealth/GHSA/index.asp