The Healthy Schools Program Best Practices Framework outlines specific steps that schools can take to create healthier school environments. The criteria are based on the best available evidence of programs, policies and practices that positively impact healthy eating and physical activity behaviors among students and staff. The criteria are reviewed and revised annually by the American Heart Association and the Healthy Schools Program Expert Panel to ensure they are both credible and usable for schools.

To earn a national award, schools must implement best practices in all of the following areas:

Systems and Policy School Meals Competitive Foods & Beverages Health Education

Physical Education Physical Activity Before & Afterschool Programs School Employee Wellness

Download the Healthy Schools Best Practices Framework.
Download the accompanying glossary of Framework terms.

The Framework is to be used as both an inventory tool and a recognition benchmark. The best way to understand and apply the criteria is to use the Healthy Schools Builder^TM.