Massachusetts has launched a new, year-long, school wellness coaching program designed to strengthen school wellness efforts based on the findings of the 2019 Massachusetts School Wellness Needs Assessment .
The Massachusetts School Wellness Coaching Program (MSWCP) pairs districts with a school wellness coach who will provide technical assistance, assessment, action planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of district wellness initiatives. Emphasis is placed on enhancing compliance with the USDA Final Rule for Local School Wellness Policy Implementation under the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010. Pairing theory with evidence-based strategies for school wellness success, this model helps schools get their wellness policies off the shelf and into action!
As COVID-19 has impacted the school environment, prioritizing wellness will be critical this school year. It is essential to have policies and systems in place that promote health and wellness for Massachusetts schools, students, and communities.
The Office for Food and Nutrition and JSI are pleased announce the districts that have been selected for the MSWCP. Congratulations to the following districts and their administrators for prioritizing wellness in their schools!
- Chelmsford Public Schools
- Cohasset Public Schools
- Italian Home for Children, Inc.
- Neighborhood House Charter School
- New Bedford Public Schools
- Rising Tide Charter School
- Salem Public Schools
- Wilmington Public Schools
The application window for the 2020-2021 School Year has officially closed, but DESE is still here to help! If you would like information on how to achieve compliance or advance school wellness in your district, please contact the DESE school wellness specialist.
