For another year, Ontario students are being challenged to take part in the Healthy Schools Recognition Program and make their schools healthier. Now in its fourth year, the recognition program encourages schools to pledge to do something healthy, such as:

·Offering a healthy menu alternative for the school lunch program;

·Establishing a daily running or walking club; an

·Inviting health professionals to speak with students about fitness and teen health.

Over the last three years, more than 3,000 schools have pledged to do more than 6,500 healthy activities through the program. Research shows that a healthy school environment enhances learning and success in school, and provides academic, social, emotional and physical benefits – so I encourage you and your school to get involved today!

The deadline for submissions is April 8, 2010. Participating schools will receive a certificate and pennant to display in their school.

For more information about the program, or ideas and suggestions on how your school can participate, please go to http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/healthyschools/helpcreate.html. You can also contact me at any time if you have any questions.

I look forward to hearing your ideas and participating in your projects. There has never been a better time to get healthy!