By: Nick Kline, Active Schools Director
One thing remains resolute: the importance of providing students with opportunities to move for 60 minutes or more each and every day. Active Schools strives to ensure the integration of evidence-based physical activity programs into every student’s PK-12 education. With our commitment to promoting physical activity in schools, we are delighted to announce two initiatives supporting our efforts to fulfill our mission.
School Recognition: Achieving Distinction
Active Schools Recognition is an award granted to schools that demonstrate exceptional commitment to creating an active school culture. It’s not just a badge; it’s a symbol of dedication to the health and well-being of students. To earn school recognition, schools must complete an application. Applications are reviewed three times per year (August, December, and May). Here’s how it works:
The school recognition process has several layers. Schools earn points for implementing evidence-based practices. Badges are awarded if a certain point total is achieved for one or more of the nine essential elements. The goal is to achieve the “Distinguished School” status after successfully applying for and receiving at least five (of the nine) badges. Distinguished Schools receive a flag to proudly display and celebrate this accomplishment.
To learn more, visit www.activeschoolsus.org/school-recognition/. When you are ready, download the application below. Good luck!
LINK TO APPLICATION (Word / Google)
Program Endorsement: Evidence-based Spotlight
Active Schools Program Endorsement is our way of spotlighting evidence-based programs and resources that align with best practices for creating an active school culture. Once again, it is not a meaningless emblem. Endorsed programs are rigorously reviewed by a panel of experts who evaluate the program’s alignment with evidence-based practices.
Many supporting organizations contribute to an active school culture. However, only Active Schools Supporting Organizations can apply for endorsement. Active Schools welcomes organizations to join our collective impact each fall. The 2023 portal is open now. The letter (LINKED here) has these details.
Supporting Organizations that offer programs or resources that align with the Active Schools Guiding Framework, can apply for endorsement. Similar to the recognition process, the applications are reviewed three times per year (August, December, and May).
Programs that become endorsed will be displayed on a separate landing page on our website, featured on the Active Schools Menus of Evidence-Based Practices, and will be highlighted through other channels of communication (e.g. newsletters, Active Schools Summit, etc.).
Learn more about the process by going to www.activeschoolsus.org/program-endorsement/ and apply by downloading the application below.
LINK TO APPLICATION (Word / Google)
As we embark on this journey of recognizing exemplary schools and endorsing transformative programs, we invite you to help us shape healthier futures, one school at a time. Let’s make every school an active school, every adult a champion of physical activity, and every child the beneficiary of learning, health, and well-being.
