Team Nutrition Schools!

            Children who are overweight and the subsequent consequences are currently the focus of attention by school boards, the media, physicians, nutritionists and others.  Schools are trying to take action in improving the overall health of their students and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) is stepping in for support to address the issue.  They have created nutrient standards that school meals must meet and now are working to increase physical activity and nutrition education within the classrooms. 

These initiatives are supported through Team Nutrition, a USDA initiative, which works with the schools and school districts to see the implementation of healthful living and nutrition awareness strategies.  Team Nutrition was developed in order to involve schools in changing the future of our children by showing students that healthful eating and physical activity can not only be beneficial, but fun as well. Team Nutrition Schools focus on positive approaches to educating children and encourage students to make healthy food and physical activity choices toward a healthful lifestyle.  USDA has developed a foundation for making these educated decisions that are based on five behavior outcomes;

·       Eat a variety of foods

·       Eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grains

·       Choose calcium rich foods

·       Eat lower fat foods more often; and

·       Be physically active.

Why should you join the team?  With rising rates of childhood overweight, you can actively begin to increase the quality of life your students will experience.  Schools involved receive free materials that educate teachers, staff, parents and students about the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.  Interactive program material is distributed to those involved including food service initiatives, classroom activities, school-wide events, home activities, community programs and events, and media events and coverage.  Team Nutrition also provides training and technical assistance to food service professionals and relies upon school and community support and dedication.  Additionally being an active member on the team will facilitate your development of a local wellness policy, which is mandated by the United States Congress to be in place for the 2006-2007 school year.  Team Nutrition packets were disseminated at Professional Cooking 2006 and will be available at the August New Manager Meetings and the fall CRE/SMI meetings.

Currently 41 percent of New York State schools (2141) are enrolled on the team.  Many schools signed up several years ago (1995-2003) and may need to update their information with Team Nutrition.  To check if your school is already enrolled click here New York Schools Enrolled (information is sorted by city).  Team Nutrition schools are comprised of individuals committed to improving the health and education of the children enrolled.  If your school is not on the list, take advantage of this opportunity to improve your school environment.  You can be an active member making a difference in the current and future health of our children.  Enrollment is easy- simply visit the Team Nutrition Website at www.teamnutrition.usda.gov and click on Join the Team.  The enrollment form is only one page and requires the commitment of the school principal to the initiative by requiring his or her signature on the agreement, as well as that of the school food service director.  For an informational packet on Team Nutrition, or if you have further questions, contact Paula Kopasz at pkopasz@mail.nysed.gov or (518) 473-1525.  We hope to hear from you soon!