(WASHINGTON, D.C.) August 25, 2026 —Alliance for a Healthier Generation today announced its annual list of America's Healthiest Schools, which includes seven schools in the Marshall County School District. The list recognizes schools for their work to support students, staff, and family well-being.
Supported by Kaiser Permanente and Kohl’s Cares, Healthier Generation’s annual award program recognizes schools for implementing best practices in areas like nutrition, physical activity, school health services, staff well‑being, and family engagement. This year, 200 schools earned All‑Star status for meeting criteria across all nine topic areas. States with the most awardees include California (283), Texas (199), South Carolina (143), and Kentucky (142).
Benton Elementary led the way in Marshall County, being recognized for implementing best practices in three areas: School Health Services, Physical Education, & Activity Social-Emotional Health & Learning.
Six other schools were recognized in one category each:
Calvert City Elementary School: Family & Community Engagement
Central Elementary School: School Health Services
Jonathan Elementary School: Staff Well-Being
Sharpe Elementary School: Social-Emotional Health & Learning
South Marshall Elementary School: School Health Services
South Marshall Middle School: Health Education
“Every school recognized this year demonstrates what’s possible when we prioritize the well-being of students and staff, creating environments where everyone can thrive,” said Traci Causey, CEO of Healthier Generation. “Their commitment to school health best practices is shaping a brighter future for millions of young people.”
Since launching America’s Healthiest Schools in 2007, Healthier Generation has recognized 3,780 schools for their efforts to make health a priority. Participation continues to grow as more schools look for practical, evidence‑based tools to support students and staff. In 2025, Healthier Generation committed to bringing the cumulative number of awardees to 5,000 schools by 2030.
Schools can find free resources, action plans, and assessment tools through Healthier Generation’s Action Center, which helps school communities build healthier policies and practices year‑round.
View the full list of 2026 awardees at HealthierGeneration.org/AHS.
About Alliance for a Healthier Generation
Alliance for a Healthier Generation is a leading national nonprofit dedicated to advancing whole child health by creating healthier school environments. Since 2005, we’ve partnered with more than 57,000 school communities across all 50 states, reaching over 31 million young people. Learn more at HealthierGeneration.org.