Cecil County Schools Receive National School Health Award

Schools Recognized for Nutrition and Physical Activity Programs

BALTIMORE – Cecil County Public Schools gained national attention this month as 16 of its elementary schools achieved distinction in the HealthierUS School Challenge: Smarter Lunchroom (HUSSC:SL) by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). All Cecil schools received the Bronze level award.

Sponsored by USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), HUSSC:SL is a voluntary national certification initiative, recognizing Team Nutrition schools that have created healthier environments through the promotion of nutrition and physical activity. It supports First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! campaign by encouraging students to live active and healthy lifestyles.

The Maryland State Department of Education and USDA commend these schools for their leadership and teamwork to improve the quality of the foods served and for promoting their physical activity programs. To acknowledge their achievement, each school will receive a HUSSC:SL award plaque, a banner to display, and a monetary award. The names of the schools are posted on the HUSSC:SL website at http://www.fns.usda.gov/hussc/maryland-award-winners.

Cecil County is the ninth public school system in the state to receive HealthierUS School Challenge recognition. MSDE has been encouraging all of the State’s school systems to apply for this certification, establishing Maryland as a leader in student health and wellness.

For more information on Maryland’s School Nutrition Programs, contact MSDE’s Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs at 410-767-0214.