Wellness
The School Wellness Policy is an important component of the education of our students in Bennington Public Schools. Research shows that good nutrition and physical activity are correlated to positive student outcomes such as; higher test scores, lower absenteeism and improved behaviors. Our school wellness policy promotes a wellness environment for all students to practice healthy eating and regular physical activity throughout the school day. We strive to provide these opportunities through the following goals and objectives.
Student access to healthy foods during the school day, including but not limited to school breakfast and lunch, classroom parties, fundraisers and student reward incentives.
Nutrition and physical education intended to help students develop lifelong healthy eating habits.
Physical activity opportunities before, during and after school.
Schools are to promote wellness through events, contests, celebrations, fundraisers, etc..
Staff are encouraged to support student wellness in the classroom.
School Fundraisers
Fundraising helps student clubs, athletics and PTO clubs raise money for school-related activities. However, fundraisers should reflect the spirit of the School Wellness Policy. According to state and federal regulations, foods sold on campus during the school day are to meet the USDA Smart Snacks guidelines. Please contact the Nutrition Services office to verify your fundraiser meets these guidelines. For your next fundraiser at school consider these non-food fundraiser ideas.
Book Fair/Exchange
Car Wash
Pet Wash
Parent's Night Out - provide babysitting for parents to shop around the holidays.
Cookbook
Family Night - provide fun activities and games for the family to enjoy.
Holiday/Birthday Grams - send a special holiday/birthday gram to a friend in homeroom.
Read-a-thon
Fun Run
Sell T-shirts
Sell Holiday Decorations
Skating/Bowling Night
Bike-a-thon
Walk-a-thon
Golf Tournament
Trivia Night
Bingo Night
Cheer/Sports Clinics - for elementary students
Teacher vs. Students Volleyball/Basketball Competition
Healthy Snacks for School Celebrations
School celebrations are an exciting time for children of all ages. We encourage children to try new things, including alternate fun party activities and healthy snacks. Providing healthy school celebrations enhance our district's commitment to promoting healthy eating habits and lifestyles. It also supports the nutrition education lessons students are learning about in class. Here are some healthy snack ideas to make your celebration a huge success.
100% Juice
Fresh Fruit
Raisins (individual boxes)
Whole Grain Crackers
Pretzels
Build your Yogurt Parfait (yogurt, fruit and granola)
Smoothies
Popcorn
Water
Graham Crackers
Frozen Fruit Cups
Fresh Vegetables Slices
Cheese Cubes
Nebraska Competitive Food Policy
The Nebraska Competitive Food Policy prohibits student organizations, booster clubs, parent groups or any other fundraiser from selling food or beverages to students 30 minutes before and until 30 minutes after the school meal service. All foods sold to students during the school day must meet the USDA Smart Snacks guidelines.
School Wellness Policy Triennial Assessment 2023
The school wellness committee met on April 26th, 2023, to review the school wellness policy and fulfill the triennial assessment requirements. The school wellness committee is comprised of parents, educators, health professionals, nutrition services staff, administrators and students. If you would like to join the school wellness committee, please send an email to Tracy Watsabaugh at twatsabaugh@bennps.org.
Triennial Assessment Documents 2023
Wellness Policy Comparison Results 2023
Progress in Reaching Wellness Policy Goals 2023
Extent of Compliance for All Schools with the Wellness Policy 2023
Sharing Triennial Assessment Results With the Public 2023
Triennial Assessment Report 2023
School Wellness Committee Report 4-24-24.pdf