Seven Schools in Nebo Honored for Healthier US School Award

Submitted by lana.hiskey on

Nebo School District’s Child Nutrition Program was honored in seven elementary schools by the Utah State Office of Education on Friday, March 13, 2013. The state’s Child Nutrition Director, Luann Elliott awarded the seven Bronze awards to the following elementary schools: Brockbank, Orchard Hills, Park, Rees, Santaquin, Taylor, and Wilson.

The celebration was led by the enthusiastic Child Nutrition Director, Luann Elliott. It included cheerleaders, crowning the school lunch ladies, and ended with seven student names being drawn to receive a prize. The last student, Sadie Moulton, won a bike.

“What ‘rockin’ cheerleaders. Congratulations on making healthy decisions and accepted the healthy school challenge,” said Luann. “Nebo has a wonderful foods services supervisor, Bill Vest. He looks out for students. He has provided taste tests with students and then serves the most popular nutritious foods. Studies show that it takes children 14 times of trying a new food to like it.”

Bill Vest, Nebo Supervisor of Food Services, mentioned that schools had to apply for the award and provide an increase of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This program was started because of the national obesity epidemic. The motto is: "Smart Meals = Smart Kids".

Superintendent Rick Nielsen said, “I love being here at Rees!” Superintendent Nielsen is a former principal of Rees Elementary. “This is what it is all about, the students. We always what to make sure you are safe. That you have healthy bodies, so you can have healthy minds. We are grateful to have great people like Mr. Vest heading up our nutrition program. Congratulations!” exclaimed Superintendent Nielsen.

Mayor G. Wayne Andersen asked, “How are the students of one of my favorite schools?” He talked about his school lunches and then complimented the students on their bright shinny faces, and said he could tell they were eating right.

Each school will receive a $500 award that will used to provide fresh fruit and vegetable trays for school registration in August. Each school also received a banner to display for the entire year that they are a Healthier US School Challenge Award winner. National School Breakfast week was March 4 through March 8.

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Lana Hiskey
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