Phillip Henderson, Moss Haven Elementary School principal, was the featured Healthy Zone School Recognition Program® speaker at the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas Campaign Cabinet Appreciation Luncheon on November 20 at PepsiCo Headquarters. United Way’s 2014 Campaign Chair and the North America president of Plano-based Frito-Lay Tom Greco announced a $700,000 grant this year to fund the expansion of the Healthy Zone School Recognition program. 

The Healthy Zone School Recognition Program, developed by United Way of Metropolitan Dallas and The Cooper Institute®, is a rigorous two-fold program designed to recognize and reward schools for their healthy practices.  Using evidence-based knowledge and best practices to assist schools in creating an environment optimal for promoting healthy behaviors, schools undergo a rigorous application process to be selected for participation in the program.  This year the program expanded from 51 to 90 schools.   

This is the second year Moss Haven has been recognized as a Healthy Zone school. Kim Aman, a special education teacher also known as “Farmer” Aman, serves as the program lead and created a “farm” with students to serve as an outdoor classroom to promote health and wellness. Students plant seeds, grow plants and then harvest the produce, which teaches them how to eat and live healthy. 

The Healthy Zone School application for the 2015-2016 school year is now available.  Please visit www.healthyzoneschool.com to learn more.