National children’s health organization Alliance for a Healthier Generation recently released its annual list of America’s Healthiest Schools for the 2023-2024 school year. Supported by Del Monte Foods, Kaiser Permanente, and Kohl’s, a total of 879 schools across 30 states—the highest number awarded to date—have been recognized for their achievements in advancing the physical, mental, and social-emotional health of students, staff, and families.
Two Cobb middle schools—Griffin and Palmer—were among the 879 schools recognized for their extraordinary efforts in these areas. Both schools have now been on the list for three years running. Only four schools total were selected in the state, which means Cobb makes up 50% of the winners from Georgia!
"Winning this award again is a testament to the hard work and dedication we've all put in. It fills me with pride to be part of a school that values excellence in all areas. It shows that we are leading the way in providing a top-quality education and creating a positive, supportive, and healthy environment," said Griffin teacher and program coordinator Adam Mullis.
To make the list, schools apply for recognition in up to nine health-related categories:
• Strengthening Social-Emotional Health & Learning, presented by Kaiser Permanente
• Cultivating Staff Well-Being, presented by Kaiser Permanente
• Increasing Family & Community Engagement, presented by Kohl’s
• Improving Nutrition & Food Access, presented by Del Monte Foods
• Implementing Local School Wellness Policy
• Bolstering Physical Education & Activity
• Enriching Health Education
• Promoting Tobacco-Free Schools
• Supporting School Health Services
All of the 879 schools nationwide were recognized in at least one of the categories, but a special group of 66 schools got top marks in every category. These schools are awarded All-Star status and distinguish themselves as leaders in health. Griffin is one of those All-Star schools, making the top grade in all nine categories. This is the second time in three years that Griffin has been an All-Star school.
"For our school to be the only All-Star school in Georgia is a tremendous honor. This recognition inspires our students to keep striving for their best. It shows them that hard work and perseverance lead to success, and it motivates them to take pride in their school and their accomplishments. We want students to do well in ALL aspects of their lives, including health and wellness!" Adam Mullis said proudly.
Palmer was recognized as "Healthiest" in six of the nine categories, the second most in the state. The school's Safety and Wellness Action Team is chaired by Physical Education teacher Eric Martin.
"I am so proud of our staff for our third consecutive year as one of America’s Healthiest Schools," said Palmer Principal Shannon Kiger. "This is definitely a school-wide effort led by Mr. Martin. At Palmer, we understand that a healthy school environment is key to both physical and mental health and provides a positive effect on students, staff, and the community. We are excited to launch our first Health Fair/Blood Drive later this school year so that families can learn and connect with health and wellness resources in our community!"
The Palmer Health Fair will take place on February 11 from 3 to 8 pm, so make plans to be there and donate blood to a great cause.
"We invite the nation to join us in honoring America’s Healthiest Schools for their commitment to meeting the health needs of their students, staff, and families," said Kathy Higgins, CEO of Healthier Generation. "As educators across the nation grapple with challenges from historic levels of chronic absenteeism to a youth mental health crisis, America’s Healthiest Schools serve as models of resilience and determination. With support from Healthier Generation’s resources and staff, these award-winning schools are implementing best practices and policies to better serve their learning communities."
More about Alliance for a Healthier Generation
Alliance for a Healthier Generation is a leading children's health organization that advances equitable whole-child health. Driven by our passion to ensure that every mind, every body, and every young person is healthy and ready to succeed, our work has reached over 31 million young people and 56,000 schools across the country. To learn more and help make a difference, visit their website and find them on Facebook, X, and Instagram.
