Seven Medford Public Schools Earn 2026 America’s Healthiest School Award

MEDFORD – Seven schools in the Medford Public School district were awarded the America’s Healthiest School distinction by the National children’s health organization Alliance for a Healthier Generation.

Medford High School, Andrews & McGlynn Middle Schools, and the Brooks, McGlynn, Missituk & Roberts Elementary Schools were all recognized for implementing best practices to support the health of staff, students, and families. A total of 1,377 K-12 schools nationwide earned a 2026 award.

“This award reflects the collaborative efforts of our teachers, staff, and administrators in the Medford Public Schools to teach our students about the importance of health education,” said Superintendent Dr. Suzanne B. Galusi. “Whether it’s physical, emotional, mental or other forms of health, we take great pride in teaching our students how they can become the best version of themselves. Thank you to our various departments for advancing this mission forward and to our district Wellness Committee for their work towards this distinction.”

Supported by Del Monte Foods, Kaiser Permanente, and Kohl’s Cares, Healthier Generation’s annual award program recognizes schools for implementing evidence-based policies and practices to support academic success and lifelong well-being. All seven MPS Schools were recognized for Enriching Health Education, while Medford High School also earned a distinction for Promoting Tobacco-Free Schools.

“We are delighted to see seven of our schools be recognized as one of America's Healthiest Schools,” says Wellness Committee Co-Chairs Jennifer Silva (MPS Director of Health Services) and Retta Smith (MPS Director of Food Services). “We look forward to our continued dialogue with students, staff, and caregivers about practicing healthy habits and further expanding health education across the district.” 

About Medford Public Schools
Medford Public Schools is a caring educational partnership of school, family and community designed to ensure all students are afforded a safe and healthy learning environment to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to reach their full academic and personal potential. The district serves 4,100 students across 8 schools. 

About Alliance for a Healthier Generation
Alliance for a Healthier Generation is a leading national nonprofit dedicated to advancing equitable whole child health by creating healthier school environments. Since 2005, we’ve partnered with over 57,000 school communities across all 50 states, reaching more than 31.3 million young people. Learn more and join the movement at HealthierGeneration.org.

For press inquiries, please contact Medford Public Schools Director of Communications Will Pipicelli.
(E): wpipicelli@medford.k12.ma.us
(P): 781-393-0599