RSU 20 schools and afterschool program received Gold, Silver or Bronze recognition from the Lets Go office in Portland. The award was based on the Let Go strategies. Below is a outline of the recognition program and schools awarded . Congratulations to all our champions for improving the health and wellness of RUS 20 students and staff.

Let’s Go!’s Six Program Areas Let’s Go! works in six different settings to reach families where they live, learn, work and play to reinforce the importance of healthy eating and physical activity. Our multi-setting model is essential to the program’s success, so we’ve created programs that align across these settings: Early Childhood (Child Care), Schools, Out of School, Workplace, Healthcare –

Schools reach children during an important period of development, in an environment that can positively influence healthy behaviors. Children spend the majority of their day at school and eat one or more meals, plus snacks during that time. Combine this with educational goals focused on positive physical, social, emotional, and academic development and schools are an ideal location to support increased physical activity and healthy eating. –

Afterschool or “Out-of-School” programs provide structure, role modeling, knowledge, and motivation, as well as a strong connection to parents and community. They serve youth at a time of day when they are more likely to be inactive and consume less healthy foods. Programs can also serve as a bridge between what children learn at school and the important decisions parents make around physical activity and nutrition at home. –

To address the policies, practices, and environments that influence healthy lifestyle behaviors, RSU 20 uses the 10 Strategies for Success:

1.    Limit unhealthy choices for snacks and celebrations; provide healthy choices.

2.    Limit or eliminate sugary drinks; provide water.

3.    Prohibit the use of food as a reward.

4.    Provide opportunities to get physical activity every day.

5.    Limit recreational screen time.

6.    Participate in local, state, and national initiatives that promote healthy eating and active living.

7.    Engage community partners to help support and promote healthy eating and active living at your site.

8.    Partner with and educate families in adopting and maintaining a lifestyle that supports healthy eating and active living.

9.    Implement a staff wellness program that includes healthy eating and active living.

10. Collaborate with Food and Nutrition Programs to offer healthy food and beverage options.

Recognition is based on implementing the first 5 strategies, communication the program’s commitment to supporting healthy behaviors and to reach the Gold level write and follow policy that reflects the 5 priority strategies.

Congratulations RSU 20!