Over 50 San Diego County Schools Named Among America’s Healthiest

San Diego County has achieved a significant milestone, with 57 schools recognized for their outstanding contributions to student health and well-being. The announcement came from the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, which included these schools in its 2025 list of America’s Healthiest Schools. This recognition places them among the 1,120 K-12 schools nationwide commended for their commitment to promoting holistic health.

Kathy Higgins, CEO of Healthier Generation, emphasized the vital role of educational institutions in shaping the health of young people. In a statement shared by the San Diego County Office of Education, she remarked, “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.” Higgins highlighted that the dedication of school leaders, educators, and staff is essential for fostering healthier futures for both students and their communities.

Evaluating Health Initiatives Across Multiple Areas

The selection process for these awards involved a thorough evaluation across nine criteria, including physical education, nutrition, school health services, and staff wellness programs. Notably, the number of schools receiving the prestigious All-Star title has increased dramatically, with 168 institutions meeting all nine criteria this year, compared to just 66 in the previous year.

The National School District is particularly proud, with nine schools making the list. Superintendent Dr. Leighangela Brady expressed her pride, stating, “We are deeply proud of our schools for earning this prestigious recognition.” Similarly, Alison Fieberg from the Del Mar Union School District, which also had nine schools recognized, praised their exceptional physical education program. “Our credentialed PE specialists are not only skilled educators, but also drivers in promoting collaboration, critical thinking, and adaptability in every class,” Fieberg noted.

Growth of the Healthiest Schools Initiative

Since its inception in 2007, the Healthiest Schools initiative has acknowledged a total of 3,347 schools. The introduction of a topic-based model in 2022 has led to a surge in the number of recognized schools, with All-Star schools experiencing a remarkable fifteen-fold increase. This growth underscores the importance of creating healthy learning environments.

Schools interested in enhancing their health initiatives can utilize the resources provided by Healthier Generation. The organization offers a comprehensive toolkit that includes assessment and action-planning resources, aimed at developing environments that support all aspects of a child’s growth.

The recognition of these schools not only highlights their commitment to health but also serves as a model for other educational institutions aiming to foster a healthier future for students. With the ongoing efforts of administrators, educators, and health advocates, San Diego County continues to lead by example in promoting the well-being of its youth.