No abstract

Physical activity and nutrition are influential factors for childhood obesity and Type 2 Diabetes. Maryland adolescents typically get fewer than the recommended 60 minutes of physical activity daily and do not eat the recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables. Improving access to healthy foods in schools and increasing availability of active time can potentially influence the development of these chronic conditions. Description: The Healthy Eating Active Lifestyle (HEAL) coalition created a Healthy Schools Challenge to promote healthy eating, physical activity and overall wellness with students. It is open to all public schools in Washington County. The challenge includes three categories: Fuel Your Body (nutrition), Get Moving (physical activity) and Feel Your Best (mental health). Criteria is based on best practices from the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. Schools select options in each category to earn points. Schools can earn a ''healthy school status'' as well as prize money based on their points accumulation. At the end of the school year, schools that go above and beyond in creating a a healthier school environment are recognized. Evaluation: Both teacher and student evaluations are completed to assess changes in school environments and behavior changes. Conclusions and Implications: Competition promotes healthy schools as our second year of the Healthy Schools Challenge created more activity and innovation. This challenge can be easily adapted in other communities.