This month we sat down with Jennifer Stanek, a 5th grade teacher at Shuler Elementary in Waukee, to chat about the efforts of her 5th grade team to highlight 5-2-1-0 and healthy habits for their kids. From monthly themes, to assemblies, a school garden and so much more, they stay busy as a 5th grade squad. How do they find the time for so many fun 5-2-1-0 centered activities? To Jennifer and her fellow teachers, it all comes down to student leadership and creating a network to lean on so they can make their ideas a reality.

The Healthiest State Initiative has announced the winners of the 2024 Healthiest State Annual Awards. The winners were recognized at ceremonies at the Workplace Wellbeing Conference in April and the 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! Summit in October for their efforts to improve the physical, social and emotional well-being of their students, employees and fellow Iowans.

Gov. Kim Reynolds has declared October as Healthiest State Month in Iowa in a proclamation signing. Iowans from all sectors are invited to celebrate with resources, fun activities, and giveaways from the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative and 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choices Count! – a nationally recognized and evidence-based prevention framework to promote healthy habits.

See how 2024 Healthiest State Award Winners spent their prize money to continue their work.