In 2004, state legislation (SB 5436) mandated that all Washington school districts establish a comprehensive school health policy addressing nutrition and physical activity by August 2005.

Washington is ahead of the game – we are among the first states to make these important changes in schools. And we have required policy changes a year ahead of our federal government which requires these guidelines to be in place in 2006.

Wellness policies from all Washington school districts have been collected by Action for Healthy Kids Coalition. Policies can be found online at the Healthy Schools in Washington site. (External Site)

We know that many schools rely on revenue from vending machines and school stores to supplement activities for young people, and even equipment for physical education programs.

Local and state public health agencies are presenting workshops to help schools and support organizations find healthier ways to support these programs.