Hello, my name is Emma Mangum. I attend The Academy of Seminole and I am in 11th grade. I work with the YAHL (Youth Action for Health Leadership) program and serve on the Leadership Team. Because my school does not offer healthy lunch options or require physical education for high school students, I was motivated to join the cause and become involved in the Elevate Student Health campaign.

Elevate Student Health works with schools and districts to improve their wellness policies. There are three main areas of focus: increasing physical activity, providing healthier food options and ensuring access to clean drinking water. As YAHL members, we help achieve these goals by giving presentations to school boards, principals and superintendents. I have personally given several presentations, including one to my superintendent and another to my school board. After both presentations, I felt that they heard me and took my concerns seriously.

People should care about school wellness policies because physical activity and good nutrition are important for improving the health of students and future generations.

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By: Emma Mangum, The Academy of Seminole