
Hi, my name is Conner Simpson, and I joined Youth Action for Health Leadership (YAHL) because I want to help kids get the proper nutrition they need to be functional people. With Elevate Student Health, I want to bring attention to the fact that most schools in Oklahoma don't have the safest drinking water or the nutritious foods they need.
We aim to encourage schools to update their school wellness policies to improve their meal options and student access to clean drinking water. These are common issues in schools around Oklahoma, and Elevate Student Health allows us to have a voice and give our input to key decision makers in our schools.
One of the events we can participate in for the campaign is called Swap Up Day. It's a way for us to educate our peers on the ways they can eat better and give them some ideas for alternatives to some of their favorite unhealthy foods. We also educate them about the harmful effects of certain foods, like processed foods. During Swap Up Day, we also give out some snacks that taste great and are great for you.
I think the reason people should support Elevate Student Health and the ways that we are trying to create a healthier school environment is because our health depends on the food and water that we consume. Without the proper nutrients and clean water, this could lead to greater health concerns.
By: Conner Simpson, Jay High School

Youth can make a real impact when we come prepared and speak up.
READ MORE
Being in YAHL and working on Elevate Student Health gives youth a voice to speak out against policies that directly affect them.
READ MORE
Elevate is important to me because it encourages students to build healthy habits at a young age.
READ MORE
YAHL has helped me learn so many new skills that will prepare me for the future.
READ MORE
Why does this matter to me? Because physical health affects everything, how we learn, how we feel, and how we grow.
READ MORE
One of my favorite events I’ve done... the state wrestling event, where we talked to classmates and kids from all over the state.
READ MORE