Congratulations to the cafeteria staff at McKenzie Elementary School for recently winning a bronze award in the "Healthier U.S. School Challenge". The award is based on the healthy food options and the amount of physical activity offered to our students. A special presentation will be made to our school on Wednesday, May 11, and a "Food Fiesta" will be held for our students on May 10-12 in the gym focusing on healthy food choices. Field days focusing on physical activity will also be held this week. Pictures and more information will be coming.

During the week of Healthier U.S. School Challenge Rita Brandon and Ann Maxwell held a "Nutritional Coloring Contest".  Two winners were chosen from each grade level.

Kindergarten:  Kristin Bradberry, Jesse Calderon 
1st Grade:  Natalie Stephens, Grant Early
2nd Grade:  Lauren Mansfield, Taylor McKennie
3rd Grade:  Giselle Garza, Isabella Colotta
4th Grade:  Caleigh Britt, Clayton Pinson

The Healthier U. S. School Challenge is a voluntary program which encourages schools to work to support and improve the health of our children.  This is done by featuring healthy items on the menu and increasing physical education and activity.  We have done this by introducing more recipes with whole grain and offering more fresh fruits and vegetables. 

McKenzie Elementary School is the only school in West Tennessee to receive this award.  They join an elite group of just over 1000 schools, out of 100.000 nationwide, which have been able to achieve health, nutrition, and fitness excellence

In order to qualify for the award, McKenzie Elementary Schools had to submit a formal application and meet basic criteria set forth by the USDA food and Nutrition Service.  The school received an award plaque and a banner to display in the school as well as their name being listed on the Team Nutrition web site.