Five Glendale Unified elementary schools have earned national recognition for their work to support student health, nutrition and well-being. 

The Alliance for a Healthier Generation recently named Cerritos, Columbus, Jefferson, Mann and Marshall Elementary Schools to its 2026 list of America’s Healthiest Schools. The annual recognition celebrates K–12 schools across the country for implementing evidence-based policies and practices that support the academic success and lifelong well-being of students, staff and families. 

All five GUSD schools were recognized in the category of “Improving Nutrition and Food Access,” reflecting their efforts to increase participation in school meal programs, provide nutrition education, and connect families with resources that improve access to healthy food.

“When our kids are well-fed and healthy, they are better prepared to learn and succeed,” said Horace Mann Elementary School Principal Shant Der-Megerdichian. “When we address their basic needs, it translates into positive outcomes for academic achievement and their overall well-being!”  

Across Glendale Unified, the Nutrition Services Department works to make nutritious meals accessible and appealing to students through universal free school meals, second chance breakfast, and strategies that create more colorful and inviting cafeteria environments. 

At the five recognized schools, GUSD partners with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health to implement the CalFresh Healthy Living Justice Expansion/Food Access Investing in Resilience (FAIR) Program. Through the program, GUSD hosts free produce distributions for students and families throughout the school year, with fresh produce provided by community partner Seeds of Hope. In addition to taking home fresh produce, families have access to CalFresh enrollment support, education, and other wraparound service resources to improve nutrition security.

The five GUSD schools are among 1,377 K–12 schools nationwide recognized by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation in 2026.

This national recognition reflects Glendale Unified’s commitment to supporting the whole child and ensuring students have the resources they need to be healthy, engaged, and ready to learn.

Pictured Below: A display of fruits and vegetables during a “California Crunch Day” Assembly at Horace Mann Elementary School.