About the Zone

The Cooper Institute® (CI) has developed the Healthy Zone School Recognition Program, which will use evidence-based knowledge and best practices to assist schools in creating a school environment that is optimal in promoting healthy behaviors. CI is delighted to partner with the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas (UWMD) and the Texas Education Agency (TEA) on this 2-tier program that will 1) honor schools for their healthy practices (Healthy Zone Schools) and 2) assist schools that wish to establish an environment that is optimal for healthy behaviors (Healthy Zone Schools – In Training).

Each interested school is required to complete an application that provides us with a profile of their school. All levels (elementary, middle, high) and types (private, charter, public) of schools are encouraged to apply.

Only individual schools will be honored; districts may not apply.

Twelve Healthy Zone Schools and 58 Healthy Zone Schools – In Training will be selected during this 6-year program. All designations will last for 3 years, at the end of which schools may reapply to the program. Each school will be eligible to receive incentives and funding valued over $7000, in addition to the guidance and leadership provided by CI.

CI and UWMD will interact directly with the representative of the selected school to assist and mentor them with the implementation of activity and health promotions. Each school representative will be invited to attend webinars hosted by CI and complete specific project objectives to maintain eligibility.

The Healthy Zone School Recognition Program will provide many benefits for participating schools, which will include providing leadership and public information on how to enhance and sustain a healthy school environment.