WASHINGTON—West Memphis elementary schools earned a 2015 Bronze National Healthy School Award from the Alliance for a Healthier Generation for their efforts to improve the health of students. 

Faulk Elementary school nurse Connie Woods and Jackson Elementary school nurse Meredith Perry traveled to Washington to accept the award on behalf of their schools. During their trip to the nation’s capital they met with U.S. Senator John Boozman (R-AR) to share their schools’ achievements. 

“The dedication and determination of staff at West Memphis elementary schools to promote healthy choices is improving the well-being of students. Creating an environment that encourages healthy eating and physical activity is a key component to putting students on a path to a successful future. I congratulate the schools, the staff and students for this accomplishment,” Boozman said. 

"Living in the Delta, we recognize some of the challenges poverty forces upon us. The West Memphis School District works tirelessly to address these challenges. Our nursing staff does a tremendous job taking care of our student health concerns. I've never seen a group approach their daily tasks as dedicated as our health professionals. It is truly a personal mission for them. The youth in our community are better because of their service," West Memphis School District Superintendent Jon Collins said. 

376 schools received National Healthy Schools Awards. Arkansas recipients include the West Memphis Elementary Schools of Bragg, Faulk, Jackson, Maddux, Richland, Weaver and Wonder and Malvern High School.