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Copy of School Wellness Advisory Committee

What is a Local Wellness Policy (LWP)?
A Local Wellness Policy (LWP) is a written document that helps a school district establish an environment that prioritizes student health, well-being and ability to learn. APS is a local Educational Agencies (LEA) enrolled in the National School Lunch Program and National School Breakfast Program and are therefore required by law to have a Local Wellness Policy in place. 
  • In 2004 - A Wellness Policy Requirement was established by Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act.
  • In 2010:
    • MA Legislation Passed An Act Relative to School Nutrition. This required the establishment of School Wellness Advisory Committees. The committees should be open to all school wellness stakeholders, including the general public.
    • The Healthy Hunger-Free Kids Act was established. This required LEAs participating in the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs to develop a wellness policy.
  • In 2016 - USDA Final Rule was created. All LEAs are required to develop a stronger LWP with additional requirements and increase transparency by June 30, 2017.
A school wellness advisory committee is a group composed of parents, teachers, school staff, students, and/or the community. The group focuses on both the health and well-being of everyone in schools and the community. The wellness committee is also responsible for assessing the wellness policy, monitoring goals, and setting action items.

In Massachusetts, the school wellness committee must meet at least 4 times per year (or quarterly) and meeting minutes or an agenda must be made available to the public. The committee also provides annual updates to both the superintendent and the school committee on goals and objectives for the upcoming year.
At least every three years, the wellness committee is required to complete an assessment of the LWP to determine compliance, alignment with model policies, and progress towards goals.
Where can I find more information?
School Wellness Advisory Council meetings are scheduled regularly. For more information or to request meeting agendas or minutes, please contact Doreen Crowe, Director of Health & Nursing Services or Denise Boucher, Director of Food Services.

The John C. Stalker Institute A-List

The A-List is an up-to-date and ever-expanding list of single-serve vending and snack products available through distribution or direct ship from manufacturer* that meet the Massachusetts Nutrition Standards for Competitive Foods and Beverages in Public Schools and the USDA's Smart Snacks nutritional standards, whichever is stricter.

 

Please see the link below for the "A" list of acceptable foods. Please note other foods including fresh fruits and vegetables are acceptable. Other foods may also be acceptable.

 


If you don't see a product on the A-list, you may try the MA Nutrition Evaluation Tools below to analyze other food items that may be acceptable.

 

 
SWAC Agendas, Minutes, and Additional Documents
 
SWAC Meeting Agendas 2023-24
 
SWAC Meeting Minutes 2023-24
 
Nutrition and Wellness Policy Evaluation 2023-24
 

Ideas for Classroom Celebrations, Rewards and Fundraising