A local school wellness policy is a written document that guides a district’s efforts to establish an environment that promotes students’ health, well-being, and ability to learn. The wellness policy requirement was strengthened by the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act.
The final rule was released on July 29, 2016 and expanded the requirements to strengthen policies and increase transparency. All districts operating the National School Lunch/School Breakfast Program were required to be in compliance with these regulations as of June 30, 2017. This summary provides a quick snapshot of all the requirements of the local school wellness policy.