Everyone at Norris Elementary School has seen the benefits from adding more minutes of physical education, more opportunities for being active throughout the day and changing some practices around healthy snacks.Second grade teacher Colleen Bade shared, “Change happens when people have the courage to commit to their ideals and point out where there is a gap between what we know and what we are doing.” According to Kindergarten teacher Torey Dudley, “This has been a fantastic journey for our school district and it is so powerful to see the students and the excitement on their faces when we participate in healthy school activities, whether that is walking path time or healthy snacking!”As a recipient of the Healthy Schools Program National Recognition Award, our Elementary school reached an important benchmark in improving the learning and working environments of students and staff. By making significant changes in the areas of healthy eating, physical activity and staff wellness, this school has joined a growing movement of committed individuals and organizations that are working to combat childhood obesity and foster healthier communities.Norris Elementary was the sole bronze recipient for the state of Nebraska!  Go to http://www.healthiergeneration.org/schools.aspx?id=5289 to read about all the national award winners.To honor Norris Elementary's outstanding accomplishment, the school will soon receive an award package that will include the following: *         A purple flag to celebrate the Bronze level achievement.*         A Healthy Schools Banner recognizing Norris Elementary*        Posters and lanyards for hallway decor and staff members.