Ed. Note: This blog was cross-posted from the US Department of Agriculture blog

Matoaka Elementary School isn’t the biggest school, or the oldest. But it does have a Parent Teacher Association that takes student health very seriously. So seriously, in fact, that one committee is completely devoted to helping kids and families develop Healthy Lifestyles!

“There were a few PTA parents who started talking about how our school could be healthier,” said Tryna Fitzpatrick, “and we decided to survey families and find out what other parents were thinking.”

The results were surprising- 92% of those who completed the survey wanted a healthier school environment- and felt so strongly that they were willing to contribute in one way or another to make it happen! And the Healthy Lifestyle Committee was born. Chaired by Tryna and Michelle Alexander, the campaign began leading the way with small changes and positive examples. The Golden Apple Award, for example, is presented to teachers and parents who are “caught being healthy.”

"Last year one of our Kindergarten teachers decided to change up the menu for the alentine’s Day Party- but she did it in such a positive way that no one felt deprived,” said Fitzpatrick. “It was a beautiful party full of healthy red, white, and pink foods- things the kids love, like strawberries and yogurt. The kids had a great time. No one had a chance to miss cupcakes!”

One thoughtful parent award-winner was looking for a way to thank hard working teachers. She developed an after-school exercise program conveniently located and timed so that staff could participate before leaving the school building. Yet another parent manages the school garden. In the fall and spring, kindergarten students plant vegetables, harvest them, and enjoy a salad party. School families care for the garden over the summer, one week at a time. Small efforts have continued to grow.
“We’re really excited about our Local Food Initiative,” says Tryna. “It required the cooperation of the county, school board, principal, and parents- it’s a big production.”

A local farm, Kelrae, provides high-quality seasonal produce 2-3 times a month for use in school meals. So far, sweet potatoes, broccoli, and asparagus have all been popular offerings. Locally grown red potatoes are next up on the menu this year.

Once there was bad weather and the vegetable the cafeteria staff had planned to use wasn’t available. Kelrae was able to provide them with kale, instead. The cafeteria staff made crunchy kale chips, which the kids loved!

“Without everyone’s efforts none of this would be possible,” says Tryna. “But we know from our personal experience that working together can produce great things!”

Find out how you can help introduce more fruits and veggies to schools in your area by visiting our Healthier School Day web site. Continue to check back here on USDA’s blog as we continue to share stories that highlight how USDA and schools across the country are working to make school days healthier for students.

Ed. note: This is cross-posted from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The crisp air and vivid colors of fall make forests especially welcoming this time of year. The Forest Service wants everyone to get out and enjoy the natural beautiful of America’s lands, so in observance of National Public Lands Day, on Saturday, Sept. 29, we will again waive the standard amenity fees for a full day at recreation sites nationwide.

This annual fee-waiver event is designed to instill a sense of shared stewardship and educate the public about the importance of natural resources. This is the third time this year the Forest Service is offering fee waivers.

Visitors hiking on Bridger-Teton National Forest in Wyoming (Photo Credit: U.S. Department of Agriculture)

“We appreciate the work of so many volunteers who help us care for our special lands,” said U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell. “National Public Lands Day is a great opportunity for families to visit our national forests, experience the beauty of fall foliage, and perhaps be motivated to join in with other volunteers and help us restore America’s precious natural resources.”

Scheduled events support President Obama’s America’s Great Outdoors Initiative and First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move! Outside initiative. Activities planned on Forest Service locations include trail maintenance, river clean-ups and tree plantings.

Participants can click on the public lands day site to find a location nearby or visit http://www.rec.gov to get helps planning activities and making camping reservations on national forests and other federal lands throughout the year.

To learn more:

• Read about Let's Move! Outside, and find more ways for your families to take advantage of America's great outdoors.

The Presidential Youth Fitness Program is a voluntary program that empowers students to adopt and maintain an active lifestyle. To learn more about this new national program, join us today for a webinar:

Presidential Youth Fitness Program 101: Understanding the Basics

1:00 PM Eastern

To register, go to: https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/876740378

Mark your calendar for these upcoming webinars:

• October 23rd, 2012: Steps for Success
• November 27th, 2012: Understanding Health-Related Fitness
• January 29th, 2013: Health-Related Fitness Before and After School
• February 26th, 2013: Engaging Parents in the Next Steps
• March 19th, 2013: Teaching Health-Related Fitness through Activity
• April 16th, 2013: Awards and Recognition
• May 7th, 2013: Moving to Solutions: What to Do with the Results

Can't make it? Read more: The Presidential Youth Fitness Program Gets a Makeover.

Marissa Duswalt is the Let's Move! Associate Director of Policy and Events