wacona staff

The national children’s health organization Alliance for a Healthier Generation has released its 2025 list of America’s Healthiest Schools, recognizing 1,120 K-12 schools across the country, including nine in the state of Georgia, for their dedication to supporting whole-child health. Backed by partners Del Monte Foods, Kaiser Permanente, and Kohl’s Cares, Healthier Generation’s annual awards program honors schools that implement evidence-based policies and practices that promote academic achievement and lifelong well-being. Schools are recognized across nine health-focused topic areas.

We are proud to announce that Wacona Elementary School has once again earned the distinction of being named one of America’s Healthiest Schools. Wacona received recognition in the following six topic areas: Strengthening Social-Emotional Health & Learning, Cultivating Staff Well-Being, Increasing Family & Community Engagement, Improving Nutrition & Food Access, Bolstering Physical Education & Activity, and Supporting School Health Services.

 “We are incredibly thankful for this national recognition, which reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting the well-being of both students and staff,” said Principal Jeri Ray. “We strive to create an environment where every member of our school community, including students, staff, and families, can learn, grow, and thrive. I am truly proud of my staff and deeply appreciative of their dedication and hard work at Wacona.” Wacona Elementary School is proud to have been recognized as one of America’s Healthiest Schools in 2023, 2024, and again in 2025.

Alliance for a Healthier Generation is a leading national nonprofit organization focused on advancing equitable whole-child health by supporting the creation of healthier school environments. Since 2005, the organization has worked alongside more than 57,000 school communities across all 50 states, reaching over 31.3 million young people nationwide. "Schools play a crucial role in positively shaping the health and well-being of our nation's youth, and they deserve national recognition for their outstanding efforts," said Kathy Higgins, CEO of Healthier Generation. "The dedication of school leaders, educators, and staff to support the physical, emotional, and academic needs of their students is nothing short of extraordinary. Their commitment is creating healthier futures for children and communities alike." Learn more and get involved at HealthierGeneration.org.

Healthy Schools