Trailside Elementary School has been nationally recognized as one of America's Healthiest Schools by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. The award was celebrated in October with a visit to Trailside by executives from the Alliance for a Healthier generation and specifically recognizes the school in the Health Education Enrichment category.
The achievement is largely the result of a special, student-centered health curriculum developed by Alina Worthen, a health teacher at Trailside.
"It is so encouraging for us to receive this award because it shows us that we are on the right track," said Worthen. “At Trailside Elementary we are building eating autonomy; we are giving children the skills and tools they need to make independent choices regarding what they eat, how much they eat, and what it does for their body," she said.
Beyond the honor itself, the resources offered to teachers through the Alliance for a Healthier Generation are proving invaluable for facilitating better learning opportunities.
“It’s a significant achievement for Trailside Elementary to be recognized as one of America’s Healthiest Schools... [They are] the only school in Utah, honored for implementing evidence-based policies and practices that support the health of students, staff, and families." said Emily Thege, Director of America’s Healthiest Schools & Recognitions for the Alliance for a Healthier Generation.
The curriculum, which includes lessons like "Healthy Food Choices and Decision-Making Skills,” does more than just teach; it creates visible changes in students' lives.
Worthen explained that students previously reported as picky eaters are now more open to trying new foods.
"We are seeing some huge changes, not only in our students but in our community from this new health class," she said.
The Alliance also acknowledged the specific efforts that earned this recognition. Ms. Thege pointed out that Trailside was recognized in the Enriching Health Education topic, which "honors school teams that provide health education to all students, using an evidence-based curriculum, and prioritize opportunities for students to practice skills to maintain and improve their health."
This commitment to continuous professional development exemplifies the staff’s desire to go above and beyond for their students.
"We feel that what we're doing at Trailside is important because we are prioritizing our students' long-term health," said Worthen. The aim is for health well-being to follow students throughout their lives, underscoring the importance of understanding how food affects one's body and brain.
Trailside Elementary has met the challenge of funding for this experiential class through strong community partnerships, such as Winco, which generously supplies nearly all the food for student activities.
Worthen’s message to parents? Engage students at home with healthy living.
"Get your student involved in cooking with you, in preparing a meal, in the process of grocery shopping and you might be surprised at how much more willing they are to try what you placed in front of them."
"I want people to know that Trailside's focus on nutrition, emotional well-being, and personal health, guided by Utah's Core Standards, reflects the staff's dedication to continuously improving their craft and providing exceptional learning experiences.