The Mayor’s Health & Well-Being Council (MHWC) held a ceremony at Austin City Hall to recognize 32 schools and three faith communities for their efforts in promoting health and well-being across Austin and Travis County.
Three congregations—St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church, New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, and Friends Meeting of Austin—were welcomed as new Faith-Community Health Partners in MHWC’s wellness initiative.
Parmer Lane Elementary and Kelly Lane Middle School, both part of Pflugerville ISD, received the Mayor’s Healthiest Schools Award. Each school was awarded $1,000 for their physical education programs, daily movement opportunities, and nutrition policies.
The District Changemaker Award went to Rodriguez Elementary (Austin ISD), Smith Elementary (Del Valle ISD), and Copperfield Elementary (Pflugerville ISD). Each received $400 for inspiring district-wide wellness innovation.
Baty Elementary (Del Valle ISD) and Blackshear Elementary (Austin ISD) were honored with the Positive Pulse Award for creating lasting and measurable health impacts.
A total of 32 schools achieved MHWC Exemplary School status this year. These schools were recognized for their comprehensive policies and programming related to physical activity, mental health, nutrition, tobacco-free living, and other areas.
According to the press release: “The Mayor’s Health & Well-Being Council (MHWC) partners with the City of Austin and Austin Public Health to encourage schools, worksites, and faith-based organizations to improve community health through evidence-based policies and programs. Established in 2004, MHWC supports efforts across nutrition, mental health, physical activity, tobacco-free living, and Mother-Friendly practices. For more information, visit mhwcaustin.org or contact info@mhwcaustin.org.”
