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Jennifer Rigney, Public Information Officer
601.545.3002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 23, 2024
PETAL, Miss. – Petal Elementary School (PES) has been named a 2024 Healthy School Award winner by the Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi Foundation in recognition of its exemplary school health and wellness initiatives and programs. PES will receive a $50,000 grant from the foundation to support ongoing efforts to create and sustain a healthy school environment.
“We are grateful to the BCBS of Mississippi Foundation for the generous grant,” said Wyn Mims, Petal Elementary School principal. “The utilization of the award will play a pivotal role in advancing the health and wellness of our school community, encompassing faculty, staff and students alike.”
“With a strategic focus on our school wellness plan goals, the funds will be directed towards implementing comprehensive initiatives aimed at fostering a culture of well-being. These initiatives may include the establishment of wellness programs, nutritional education workshops, mental health resources and the creation of an environment that promotes physical activity,” Mims said.
Since 2015, the Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi Foundation Healthy School Awards Program has recognized and rewarded K-12 public schools with health policies and programs promoting healthy eating, physical activity, staff wellness, tobacco-free lifestyles, and parental and community involvement. The Healthy School Awards are $50,000 each, regardless of school enrollment, and one or multiple schools may be awarded. Learn more about the Healthy School Awards Program and the Foundation at www.healthiermississippi.org.