I think Medford has taken a very proactive policy regarding the health and well being of our children with our Whole Child initiative and our Wellness Policy. This is a five-year model to improve the health and wellness of the students in the Medford public schools. Many initiatives are being implemented throughout Medford. For example, last year, Tufts students organized a fruit and vegetable tasting, so that students could be introduced to a variety of healthy choices. This will expand to other elementary schools this year. Soda was eliminated from vending machines and healthier choices have been incorporated into school lunches. Walking clubs have been initiated at several schools and other activities such as Tai Bo have been offered. While it was difficult at first to change the practice of bringing in high calorie treats for classroom parties, parents now express to me appreciation for the policy because it has improved student nutrition and lessened parent stress. Health and exercise components are emphasized in physical education. Our biggest shortcoming in this area is our inability to provide more physical education classes because of the many time constraints in the daily school schedule. A major objective in the next two years will be to incorporate more physical activity in the course of the school day.
