Cardinal Cafe

Wellness Through Nutrition and Physical Activity Policy

1. Philosophy

Cardinal Stritch Catholic High School and Academy believes that children and youth who begin each day as healthy individuals can learn more and learn better are more likely to complete their formal education.  Cardinal Stritch Catholic High School and Academy also believes that healthy staff can more effectively perform their assigned duties and model appropriate wellness behaviors for students.  This policy encourages a holistic approach to staff and student wellness that is sensitive to individual and community needs.

2. Goals

1. Nutrition – Academic performance and quality of life issues are affected by the choice and availability of good foods in our schools.  Healthy foods support student physical growth, brain development, resistance to disease, emotional stability and ability to learn.  

1. Nutritional education will be included in health education for grades nine through ten.
2. Nutritional education will be included in appropriate curricular areas.
3. The sale of vending machine beverages during the school day will be limited to water, fruit juices (100%) and isotonic beverages (i.e. sports drinks).
4. School Meals will be planned in accordance with the school meal nutrition standards as set by USDA and state guidelines 
5. All snacks sold will be compliant with the Smart Snacks in School nutrition standards
6. The school will strive to provide health foods to students during the school day such as snacks, parties and incentives. 
7. Marketing and advertising will be allowed only for those foods and beverages that meet the Smart Snack standards. 

2. Healthy and Safe Environment – A healthy and safe environment for all, before, during and after school supports academic success.  Safer communities promote healthier students.  Healthier student do better in school and make greater contributions to their community.

1. School building, grounds and equipment shall meet current health and safety standards.  The environment shall be inviting, clean, safe and in good repair.  
2. Cardinal Stritch Catholic High School and Academy shall maintain an environment that is free of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs.
3. Safety procedures and appropriate training for students and staff shall support personal safety and a violence and harassment free environment.
4. Cardinal Stritch Catholic High School and Academy will work to create an environment where students, parents/guardians and staff are respected, valued and accepted with high expectations for personal behavior and accomplishments.

3. Physical Education and Activity – The program shall provide the opportunity for all students to develop skills, knowledge and attitudes necessary for a healthy future.

1. Physical education shall be taught by certified specialist.
2. Cardinal Stritch Catholic High School and Academy shall require one (1) credit for graduation, to include one semester of personal fitness (.5 credit) and one semester of an approved physical education course (.5 credit)
3. Students shall be provided with opportunities for enjoyment, challenge, self-expression and social interaction that will lead to a physically active lifestyle (i.e. athletic programs).

4. Social and Emotional Well-Being – Programs and services that support and value the social and emotional well being of students, families and staff build a healthy school environment.  

1. Students shall be provided the skills to express thoughts and feelings in a responsible manner and give and receive support from others.  
2. Counseling services will be provided for students, families and staff when needed, and if deemed necessary linkage to community services may follow.
3. An atmosphere of understanding and respect for others differences will be fostered to encourage positive interpersonal relationships.
4. Students and staff shall be encouraged to balance work and recreation in an effort to minimize stressors which may interfere with health development.

III  Leadership, Involvement and Assessment

1. The Director of Operations at Cardinal Stritch Catholic High School & Academy review the Wellness Policy yearly. After the yearly review, the School Board is updated of any changes to the policy. 
2. Cardinal Stritch Catholic High School & Academy makes the Wellness Policy available on the website for public comment and suggestions. http://www.cardinalstritch.org
3. The Director of Operations at Cardinal Stritch Catholic High School & Academy will report on the progress and activities every three years to the school board and post the written assessment on http://www.cardinalstritch.org