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Kudos to Ypsilanti Public Schools

Congratulations to all Washtenaw County school districts that started the 2006-2007 school year with a new wellness policy!  Last spring/summer, wellness committees across the county were working hard to write and adopt policies. This year, the challenge is implementation! Ypsilanti Public Schools is one district that is making strides.

New Nutrition Policies in Ypsilanti

One of the biggest changes in YPS is that candy is no longer sold in school buildings during the school day. Not only is candy no longer allowed in school vending machines, it has also been removed from a la carte lines and school stores. The only place where candy is still sold is at evening sporting events.

To replace candy sales, school officials have found many popular & healthier choices that students are now munching up. These include: 100 calorie snack packs, baked chips, granola bars, popcorn, breakfast bars, & cheese sticks.

In addition to cutting candy, YPS has also greatly limited pop in schools. In fact, all vending machines are now gone from elementary through middle schools. And at high schools, vending machines include regular and flavored waters, 100% fruit juices, and some healthier sports drinks (which are lower in salt and sugar). While some pop is also sold, most selections are diet.

http://www.actionforhealthykids.orgFinally, YPS received a grant from the United Dairy Industry of Michigan and Michigan Action for Healthy Kids to put in refrigerated vending machines in West Middle School and Ypsilanti High School. All milk offerings are 2% fat or less. Also sold are cheeses, carrots, and some sandwiches (for example, turkey on whole wheat bread). Yum!

Congratulations, Ypsilanti Public Schools! You are well on your way to providing a healthy environment where all students are fit and ready to learn!

Want more information?

  • Check out YPS's complete Wellness Policy, visit their website to download a copy.

  • Visit http://healthyschools.ewashtenaw.org for more information on how Washtenaw County Public Health can help your school become a healthier place for students and staff.