Five Auburn elementary schools – Gildo Rey, Ilalko, Pioneer, Terminal Park and Washington – recently won national awards for creating healthier school environments through promotion of nutrition and physical activity.

The awards were administered by the HealthierUS School Challenge, a voluntary certification initiative for schools participating in the National School Lunch Program. It supports First Lady Michelle Obama's Let's Move! Campaign by helping schools raise healthy children.

A total of 74 Washington schools won the award. The awards are based on how the schools:

• Improve the nutritional quality of the foods served

• Provide students with nutrition education

• Provide students with physical education and opportunities for physical activity

Auburn schools adopt a variety of practices to ensure students eat healthy and play regularly including:

• Before and after school fitness activities such as open gym and run clubs

• Fresh fruit and vegetable afternoon snacks

• Safe walking and cycling routes to school

• Walk-to-read programs

• Heart rate monitor and pedometer incentives

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