Forsyth Schools Considers Wellness Policy Changes

Forsyth County Schools is considering adopting changes to its wellness policy and is seeking community feedback on the proposal.

According to Forsyth County School’s website, the wellness policy is designed to create “school environments that promote and protect children’s health, well-being, and ability to learn by supporting healthy eating and physical activity that will increase students’ chances for a productive life of optimal quality.”

Amendments to the current policy include the addition of state and federally-mandated periodic assessments and progress reports, and the distribution of meeting minutes for the schools’ wellness committee, which is made of parents, teachers, food and health professionals, and other stakeholders.

The new policy would also ensure Forsyth County Schools adheres to the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, which established new dietary guidelines in schools to help fight childhood obesity and promote healthier lifestyles. Forsyth County Schools would also adhere to federal and state requirements on exempt fundraisers.

All meals and beverages sold inside Forysth schools “will comply with federal meal pattern requirements and nutrition standards,” which would replace the current policy which states meals must “meet the nutrition recommendations of the most current scientifically based U.S. Dietary Guidelines for Americans.”

Forsyth County Schools is seeking feedback on the proposed changes to its wellness code. To participate in the feedback process, please visit their website.