Wellness Policy

D i s t r i c t 1 2 6
Alsip, Hazelgreen and Oak Lawn Elementary Schools
11900 South Kostner Avenue Alsip, Illinois 60803
phone: (708) 389-1900 fax: (708) 396-3793

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	Wellness Policy

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Encouraging Healthy Food Choices Is Now Necessary

Wellness Policy Parent Letter
Food/Beverage List
Wellness Policy (878.6)

The State of Illinois requires school districts to have a Wellness Policy. The goal of this requirement is to improve the school nutritional environment, promote student health, and reduce the numbers of overweight children. Part of this requirement is that school districts develop nutrition guidelines and promote nutritious food and beverage choices. Studies show that healthy eating is essential for students to achieve their full academic potential, full physical and mental growth, and for lifelong health and well-being. Additionally, healthy eating can reduce the risk of developing dangerous chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

As a result of the state guidelines, our district’s wellness committee will need to make changes for the upcoming 2008-2009 school year in order to meet the required guidelines. These changes will include:

	No Popcorn Days
	No Fun, Star, Hornet, or Lion Lunches
	No selling of any food items during the lunch periods
	No food items for birthdays or parties with the exception of teacher led celebrations

We recognize that this may present some big changes for our district families. However, there are still many options for families and students (see downloadable food/beverage list above).

Birthdays will continue to be recognized, especially in our elementary buildings. Birthdays also may be celebrated in the classrooms. Rather than sending food such as cupcakes or cookies, only non-food items will be accepted. Examples of acceptable items include pencils, erasers, bookmarks, stickers, a book for the classroom library, or small novelty items.

When teacher led celebrations are scheduled, the teacher/school will inform parents of approved foods that meet the guidelines or our district’s wellness policy. Due to food allergies and food safety concerns, it is preferred that food items are store bought, individually wrapped, and sent to school in original packaging listing ingredients.

We are all in this together and are working to help our children make healthy living choices.