Active Schools Announces 2017 National Award Recipients

Washington /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ - Today, Active Schools, a national movement to increase physical education and physical activity in schools, announced its 2017 National Award recipients. Four hundred and fifty-two U.S. schools, representing 37 states plus the District of Columbia, were recognized for their outstanding efforts to create an active school environment.

The Let's Move! Active Schools National Award is the nation's top physical education and physical activity distinction for K-12 schools. The award celebrates a school's commitment to providing students with at least 60 minutes of physical education and physical activity before, during and after school each day.

"The administrators, teachers, staff, and parents in these schools understand that physical education and physical activity are a must-have for students to reach their full potential in school and life," said Charlene Burgeson, Active Schools Executive Director. "They use creativity and determination to overcome challenges and provide students with the movement opportunities they need and deserve." Studies show that Active Kids Do Better. Physical activity not only helps kids stay healthy and strong, but it can also contribute to higher test scores, improved attendance, better behavior in class, enhanced leadership skills and a lifetime of healthy habits.

To earn a Let's Move! Active Schools National Award, a school must have met significant benchmarks in five areas: physical education; physical activity before and after school; physical activity during school; staff involvement; and family and community engagement. Honorees receive a congratulatory letter, certificate, and large display banner.

Check out the honorees: 2017 Let's Move! Active Schools National Award Recipients.

Since its February 2013 launch, through the power of a national collaborative of 42 health, education and private sector organizations, Active Schools has enrolled more than 34,000 individual champions in all 50 states plus the District of Columbia, reaching more than 23,000 schools and 12 million students. The Active Schools movement encourages involvement by all who care about active, healthy and happy kids. To join, go to http://www.activeschoolsus.org Everyone has a role to play!