As we wind down yet another school year, it is important to reflect upon the many great things happening within Saint Paul Public Schools (SPPS). One of those successes is employee health. While our nation’s health is steadily declining, SPPS employees are proactive in battling this staggering trend with the help of the ChooseWell-LiveWell (CW-LW) District Wellness Program.

Now completing our fourth successful year, the CW-LW District Wellness Program continues to contribute to the health and well-being of every employee. We focused again this year on the “big three”: stress management, healthy eating and increased physical activity.

The 42 sites currently participating in the program can be proud of the positive progression they have made in improving their health and well-being. Since program inception:

• physical activity has increased by more than10 percent
• poor quality food choices have decreased by 8 percent
• fruit and vegetable consumption has increased by 9 percent
• emotional health concerns have decreased by 7 percent

As we turn the page on yet another school year and look forward to summer activities, we must recognize the great strides made by our co-workers. With your dedication, support and encouragement, we continue to build a more healthy culture in Saint Paul Public Schools. Remember to choose well and live well!