A local wellness policy is a written document that guides local education agencies (LEA) or school district’s efforts to establish a school environment that promotes students’ health, well-being, and ability to learn.
In 2004, Congress passed the Child Nutrition and WIC Reauthorization Act (Sec. 204 of Public Law 108-265) requiring all local education agencies (LEAs) participating in school nutrition programs to create local wellness policies. In 2010, Congress passed the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act (Sec. 204 of Public Law 111-296) adding new provisions for local wellness policies. LEAs must comply with the Local Wellness Policy Final Rule by June 30, 2017.
In addition to federal requirements, districts must take into account requirements of the Students Health and Fitness Act of 2005 , which establishes standards for physical education, physical activity, nutrition education, and foods served in elementary schools (kindergarten through fifth grade). For additional information, visit our website at https://ed.sc.gov/districts-schools/nutrition/wellness-and-food-safety/wellness-and-food-safety/local-wellness-policies/.