Howard County Public Schools has gained national attention by having all of its schools being awarded a HealthierUS School Challenge (HUSSC) Bronze level of distinction by the U.S.Department of Agriculture (USDA). The award, for improving the health of their children and their community, is given in recognition of outstanding practices in school nutrition programs, physical education, and physical activity.

Sponsored by the USDA Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), HUSSC is a voluntary national certification initiative for schools participating in the National School Lunch Program. It supports First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! campaign by recognizing schools that are creating healthier school environments by promoting nutrition and physical activity. 

The USDA commends these schools for their leadership and team work to improve the quality of the foods served and for promoting their physical activity program.  To acknowledge their achievement, each school will receive a HUSSC award plaque, a banner to display, and a $500 award. The names of the 73 schools are posted on the HUSSC awardees list on the Team Nutrition HUSSC website.

Howard County is one of only four school systems in the State with HealthierUS schools and the only school system in Maryland to earn the award for all of their schools. The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) is encouraging all Maryland school systems to apply for this certification which would establish Maryland as a leader in student health and wellness.

For more information on Maryland’s School Nutrition Programs, contact MSDE’s School and Community Nutrition Programs Branch at 410-767-0214 or visit www.eatsmartmaryland.org.