The New York State Department of Health (NYS DOH) is pleased to announce the release of four new Health Impact Statements: “Increasing Physical Activity at Schools in New York State”, “Improving Nutrition at Schools in New York State”, “Implementing Food Standards in New York State”, and “Increasing Breastfeeding in New York State”. From 2013-2018, NYS DOH received funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to address the problem of obesity by increasing physical activity opportunities for students; improving the nutrition environment for students; implementing food service guidelines at community sites including work places, hospitals, municipalities and community-based organizations; and promoting, supporting and protecting breastfeeding in hospitals, health care practices, worksites and community organizations. The attached reports summarize the impact that this funding had on children and adults in NYS. Each report includes a description of the problem, the intervention, and the health impact. These reports have been approved for public use. Feel free to share them with partners or colleagues that are involved in initiatives to decrease obesity, increase physical activity, improve nutrition, and increase breastfeeding.
Active transportation CSPAP Healthy Meetings Physical activity before and after school Physical activity during school Physical Education Recess School Nutrition Wellness Committees
Raising money through fundraisers can support the financial health of schools. Yet, when non-nutritious foods are sold, it is at the expense of the health and well-being of children and their families. Eating habits are greatly influenced by the types of foods and beverages that are available. When schools sell candy, cookies, and other unhealthy foods, they are increasing their availability. Schools across New York are changing how they fundraise—whether it’s to provide fun, family activities; to help community members recycle unwanted electronics; or to sell school promotional items—to make a positive impact in the community. Some of the most successful ideas are provided on this handout.
Fundraising Healthy Food Environment School Nutrition Staff Involvement
Right now, every state is putting together a comprehensive plan to ensure all students receive a fair, equitable, and high-quality education. These plans are required by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), recently passed by Congress. To help every student succeed, Voices for Healthy Kids is advocating for physical education to be included in every state’s ESSA plans. PE addresses the needs of the whole child, positively impacting their physical, mental and emotional health, making it a critical part of every child’s education. The resources below can help deliver an important message to education leaders in your state:
CSPAP School Nutrition School Wellness Policy
One-pager: 7 things you can do to make your school a healthier place! Updated April 2018. Download Tips for Teachers
Classroom Celebrations CSPAP Fundraising Healthy Food Environment Physical activity during school Recess School Nutrition School Wellness Policy Staff Involvement
The Department of Child Nutrition is a good resource for nutrition policies and resources for public schools in New York.
Food Marketing School Nutrition
We provide information, services, and continuing education to school nutrition and food service professionals in New York State. We sponsor conferences where attendees receive educational opportunities through workshops, speakers, and exhibits showcasing the latest innovative food service and nutrition trends. The most current regulations and issues in school nutrition are addressed at these events.
School Nutrition
The new “Don’t Sell Us Short” toolkit supports reducing unhealthy marketing in schools.
Food Marketing School Nutrition
USDA Professional Standards Training Database has over 500 low-cost or free trainings for school nutrition staff. This site allows school nutrition staff to search for training that meets their learning needs. Each listing contains information about the training, including how to access, developer, date, learning objectives covered, and more.
School Nutrition
