In response to the Massachusetts School Wellness Needs Assessment, the DESE Office for Food and Nutrition is pleased to offer for the 3rd year a State-Wide School Wellness Coaching Program to Massachusetts schools. This school year, 17 districts participated in the program to update their wellness policies and advance wellness in their schools.

The program pairs districts and schools with a School Wellness Coach from The John C. Stalker Institute of Food and Nutrition to provide technical assistance with:

• Wellness policy assessment and updates to meet both state and federal requirements
• Action planning
• Prioritizing and implementing wellness initiatives
• Monitoring and evaluating results

The program can be held virtually or in person. To be considered for this year’s program, please complete the School Wellness Initial Interest Survey by June 3rd, 2022. Acceptances will be communicated to districts by Friday, June 17^th.

All questions regarding the program can be directed to Nicole Good, School Wellness Specialist, Department of Elementary and Secondary Education: Nicole.Good@mass.gov.