2 OC Schools Are The Healthiest In The U.S., New Study Says

ORANGE COUNTY, CA — Two Orange County schools are among the healthiest in the country.

Two Fullerton School District schools were recognized as being two of America's healthiest schools for their efforts to support student health, nutrition and well-being, it was announced Monday.

Maple Elementary School and Robert C. Fisler School were among more than 1,300 K-12 schools nationwide recognized by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation.

Maple earned recognition in three categories — supporting school health services, implementing a local school wellness policy and strengthening social-emotional health and learning. Fisler was recognized for improving nutrition and food access.

"Student success is about more than what happens in the classroom -- it is also about creating school communities where children feel healthy, supported and ready to learn," Fullerton School District Superintendent Gretchen Janson said in a statement. "We are incredibly proud of our staff for creating environments that help every student thrive."

At Maple, wellness programs include health screenings, community health partnerships and schoolwide social-emotional learning. The school also introduced a "Share Table" aimed at reducing food waste and a "Chill Area for Everyone," where students can practice self-regulation.

"This recognition reflects the intentional work our staff does every day to create an environment where students feel safe, supported and connected," Maple Principal Amanda Sobremesana said. "We are proud that wellness has become such an important part of our school culture."

At Fisler, a Second Chance Breakfast program and additional nutritious snack options increased student participation by 14%, officials said. Students also took part in food taste tests and classroom nutrition lessons designed to connect healthy eating choices with overall wellness and academic success.

"Healthy students are better prepared to learn, and that starts with making sure they have access to nutritious food when they need it," Fisler Principal Caroline Llewellyn said. "By expanding access and making nutrition education engaging, we are helping students develop healthy habits that can last well beyond their time at Fisler."

The Alliance for a Healthier Generation's annual recognition honors schools nationwide that demonstrate a commitment to creating healthier learning environments for students and staff.

City News Service contributed to this report.