HealthierUS School Challenge Initiative
Information about and instructions how to apply for a HealthierUS School Challenge (HUSSC) Award.
Background
The HealthierUS School Challenge (HUSSC) is a voluntary certification initiative established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), to recognize schools that are creating healthier school environments through their promotion of nutritious meals, physical activity, and nutrition education.
First Lady Michelle Obama's Let's Move! Campaign incorporates the HUSSC by acknowledging schools that are actively working to reduce the childhood obesity epidemic. Four levels of superior performance are awarded and the USDA is offeringmonetary incentives with each level: Bronze ($500), Silver ($1,000), Gold ($1,500), and Gold Award of Distinction ($2,000).
Question and Answer Guidance
The USDA offers HUSSC Frequently Asked Questions 
(PDF) for clarification on criteria guidance.
(PDF) for clarification on criteria guidance.State Agency Contacts for the HUSSC
For questions or to submit a HUSSC application, please contact Elizabeth Moreno, Nutrition Education Consultant, by phone at 916-324-9749 or by e-mail at emoreno@cde.ca.gov, or Desiree Rojo, Child Nutrition Consultant, by phone at 916-323-0213 or by e-mail at drojo@cde.ca.gov.
How it Works
To receive a HUSSC award a school and/or school district must:
- Participate in both the School Breakfast Program (SBP) and National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
- Be a Team Nutrition (TN) school, to enroll as a TN school, please visit the USDA Team Nutrition Web site
- Have and support a Local School Wellness Policy (LSWP) as mandated by Section 204 of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010, Public Law 111-296
- Meet or exceed HUSSC criteria established for:
- Average Daily Participation (ADP) in the SBP and NSLP (No required ADP for Bronze award level)
- Nutrition standards for meals
- Nutrition standards for competitive foods and beverages
- Nutrition education
- Physical education and activity
- Other Criteria of Excellence from which schools can select
Questions: Nutrition Services Division | 800-952-5609