The Escondido Union High School District (EUHSD) joined Live Well San Diego as a recognized partner on December 9, 2014, following a vote by its Board of Education. EUHSD became a Live Well San Diego partner by recognizing the link between student health and learning and providing programs to students and staff to promote health, physical activity, and wellness. Through the ASSETS program, students are offered opportunities to participate in after school activities that support physical activity and healthy living. The district offers fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains, as well as reduces the amount of fat, sugar and salt on the menu in order to promote good nutrition and healthy eating habits. EUHSD also provides nutritionally balanced meals to infants and toddlers and offers health and nutrition education to teen parents through the Cal-Safe program. In addition to these practices, EUHSD’s Nutrition Services Department goes above and beyond standard practice by providing students dinner at Orange Glen High School, serving over 10,000 students since August; and through funding from the USDA, they provide meals during the summer for children 3 – 18. In the summer of 2013 they provided a total of 30,586 meals.
To meet the health needs of students and families, EUHSD partners with the USC School of Dentistry mobile clinic to provide free dental services to families in the Orange Glen attendance area. EUHSD recognizes the importance of alcohol and drug prevention: each school provides alcohol, tobacco, and drug prevention activities, and participates in Red Ribbon Week. The District also utilizes the California Healthy Kids Survey to collect and analyze data related to students’ attitudes toward and use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs. In an effort to promote health among their employees, EUHSD offers free flu shots each fall and a free annual health fair where employees can participate in a variety of tests including blood pressure and cholesterol checks. EUHSD employees can also participate in a free Wellness Program and monthly health education webinars. EUHSD has several programs and projects that emphasize their commitment to improving the environment, including a storm water management program and a master plan to improve energy efficiency. Moving forward, EUHSD is committed to continuing its successful programs that support students, families, and staff and contribute towards a healthy, safe, and thriving community.
