The SNAP-Ed Nutrition Education Program joined hands with schools across East Baton Rouge Parish to commemorate National Nutrition Month, an annual initiative established by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. This campaign aims to promote informed food choices and foster healthy eating and physical activity habits among individuals.
The festivities commenced with Capitol Elementary as the SNAP-Ed Nutrition Education Program partnered with the school in the national reading literacy campaign “Read Across America,” in honor of National Nutrition Month. East Baton Rouge Nutrition Educator Chrishana Thomas, along with Content Developer/Public Relations Specialist for SNAP-Ed and Cooperative Extension, Kandace Moss, engaged in the challenge by reading nutrition-themed books to kindergarten through 4th-grade students.
“Reading literacy is the gateway to knowledge and empowerment for children. Just as nutritious food fuels the body, feeding young minds with books is vital for their growth and development,” remarked Thomas. Ms. Thomas spearheaded the collaboration between SNAP-Ed and Capitol Elementary to instill nutrition education in young minds while highlighting the importance of reading literacy among elementary students. Jessica Anderson, Literacy Coach at Capitol Elementary, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing the significance of community organizations in enriching students’ educational experiences. Anderson stated, “Read Across America is not only about promoting and celebrating literacy but also about exposing students to diverse educational opportunities beyond the classroom.”
Continuing its efforts, SNAP-Ed organized a “MyPlate Pledge Day” at Idea Bridge Charter School. During the event, elementary students pledged to incorporate all five food groups from the MyPlate dietary guide into their meals and engage in regular physical activity. As a token of appreciation, the students received MyPlate Champion certificates to commend their commitment to healthy living.
