Creekside Intermediate Recognized with Michigan School Wellness Award for Promoting Healthful Lifestyles

by Melanie McIntyre

At a special ceremony in Lansing on May 16th, Creekside Intermediate was one of 46 schools statewide (and the only one in Washtenaw County) to receive a Michigan School Wellness Award from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). This award is given to those schools who foster healthful eating, physical activity habits and tobacco-free lifestyles.

The Michigan School Wellness program is part of the Michigan Health and Wellness 4x4 Plan, in collaboration with the Michigan Department of Education, the United Dairy Industry of Michigan, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Michigan Action for Healthy Kids and the Healthy Kids, Healthy Michigan Coalition.

Creekside was recognized for their efforts in creating a centralized committee charged with improving the health culture in the building.  This school health team meets regularly to develop SMART goals and action plans to address current staff and student health needs. Members of the team include representatives from administration, counseling/social work, lifetime fitness, classroom teachers and support from Project Healthy Schools through the University of Michigan.

Accepting the award on behalf of Creekside were Principal Tammy Reich and Lifetime Fitness teachers Fred Ligrow and Angie Scott. The school received a framed certificate signed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer and a personalized award banner to hang in the building.

“We support and recognize schools for their efforts to promote student health,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS Chief Medical Executive and Chief Deputy Director of Health. “These winning schools are promoting health through a variety of strategies including physical education, nutritious food and safe and supportive environments, and are a great example for all schools in Michigan.”

Keep up the great work, Creekside!