Upper Marlboro School Nationally Recognized for Healthy Programs

Students at Melwood Elementary School in Upper Marlboro have been dancing their way to healthier lives and recently were recognized for their efforts.

The Alliance for a Healthier Generation—founded by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the William J. Clinton Foundation—awarded more than 250 school across the nation Sunday for creating a healthier environment for both students and staff.

The schools were honored during a healthy schools forum in Little Rock, AR by former President Bill Clinton and AHA President Donna Arnett.

Melwood received a bronze-level award for their efforts— teachers are learning how to line dance, while students are learning how to salsa. They also started an afterschool program called Fun and Fit in which students learn more about eating healthier and other physical activities. 

Students also worked in a vegetable garden and ate the crops when they were ready, while the cafeteria offered healthier options and water at every lunch.