Promoting the health and wellbeing of all students
March is National Nutrition Month, dedicated to highlighting the significance of healthful eating and proper nutrition. It serves as a reminder for the Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) to reaffirm its commitment to raise awareness and advocate for health equity in our school communities to make proper nutrition accessible for all students.
LACOE, alongside the LA County Board of Education, has officially designated March as National Nutrition Month, emphasizing the profound impact of nutrition on students’ overall health and well-being, as well as their ability to learn and achieve academically. Together, they underscore the crucial role of federal nutrition programs in meeting students’ nutritional needs and expanding the safety net for children experiencing hunger. Additionally, we are proud to announce a special partnership with the USDA that allows LACOE to provide direct staffing and funding support to select LA County school districts to expand nutrition education and wellness policy efforts. (See related story)
LACOE and the Board of Education recognize the vital contributions of registered dietitians, nutritionists, and other nutrition professionals. These experts play a pivotal role in providing comprehensive nutrition education, improving access to locally sourced foods, and minimizing food loss and waste, thereby fostering healthier school environments. Through the lens of climate change, it is evident that food choices and waste management significantly influence planetary health by reducing CO2 emissions from the food system. This underscores the urgency of prioritizing sustainable nutrition practices in our school communities.
LACOE’s Nutrition and Wellness Unit commends school communities in LA County for their ongoing commitment to providing exceptional service and reliable access to nutritious school meals and snacks. Despite the challenges presented by inflation and lack of access to healthy food, nutrition services professionals alongside leaders and staff, ensure that students receive the vital nourishment necessary for their well-being and academic success.
Supporting Nutrition Access Through Evidence-Based Practices
In recognition of National Nutrition Month, LACOE’s Nutrition and Wellness Unit is committed to promoting evidence-based practices to increase access to high-quality, nutritious food for all. Through learning opportunities such as the Thriving Schools Staff Wellbeing, Local School Wellness Policy, Team Nutrition Talk Time, and Food Assistance Programs series, LACOE’s Nutrition and Wellness Unit provides valuable resources for Local Education Agencies (LEAs) and school staff, students, families, and community members to promote healthy behaviors.
Additionally, LACOE’s Nutrition and Wellness Unit provides technical assistance, training, resources, including monthly campaign kits, to Los Angeles County LEAs through various grant-funded initiatives. These resources promote implementation of evidence-based nutrition and wellness policies and practices.
