Lead Agency: Friends of the Center for Human Nutrition

Chefs-in-training from Johnson & Wales University taught Philips Elementary School students and their families to prepare recipes in ways that are healthy, affordable and—of course—delicious. With the culinary school located just a few blocks away from the elementary school, the Denver Healthy Eating by Design project provided an opportunity to bring neighborhood resources to the school and develop mutually-beneficial connections within the community.

Children and parents worked together to prepare healthy recipes and learn about nutritious foods, and the culinary students sharpened their skills in ways that were both practical and meaningful. Babysitting services for younger siblings were provided at the cooking classes to make it easier for families to participate. Families also received free produce each week as part of the fruit and vegetable distribution program. Snow peas, clementines, purple fingerling potatoes, avocados and other fruits and vegetables were given to students to take home along with nutrition information and recipes for the produce of the week. The distribution program also was an effective way to engage parents, as many volunteered to help.

A healthy eating environment also was created at Philips Elementary School. "Seedie Babies" (fruit and vegetable bean bag characters), colorful promotional signs and encouragement from cafeteria staff helped increase students' consumption of fruits and vegetables at lunch. In the classroom, teachers delivered the Integrated Nutrition Education Program, which included nutrition lessons and simple food preparation activities. They also reinforced healthy eating with fun and colorful non-food rewards and fundraising such as school supplies and books, instead of candy and sweets.

The principal, Chuck Babb, was another invested partner who took action to implement a recess before lunch policy, after witnessing students rushing to eat lunch so they would have more time for recess. The policy was a hit with both students and staff. In addition, the principal reported fewer disciplinary problems in the afternoon as well as increased test scores, which he attributes to students spending more time eating a nutritious lunch. "Collectively, these (healthy eating) programs were instrumental in changing the eating culture of students and parents, and I am also convinced that they contributed to our Colorado State Assessment Program test in reading success," said Mr. Babb.

With these and other changes that include a student walking club (which logged enough steps to walk across the United States), free healthy breakfasts on walk-to-school days and easy access to healthy foods at all school events, Philips Elementary School has truly changed its culture to heal its students through healthy eating and active living.