Fifteen PVPUSD Schools Named Among America's Healthiest Schools

PALOS VERDES, CA — Fifteen schools in the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District (PVPUSD) have been recognized as among America’s Healthiest Schools for 2025 by the National Children’s Health Organization, Alliance for a Healthier Generation.

Announced on September 15, the national list honored 1,120 schools for advancing whole-child health through evidence-based policies and practices. At its September 25 meeting, the PVPUSD Board of Education formally recognized the schools and representatives from the Palos Verdes Peninsula Council of PTAs Wellness Committee for their leadership and commitment to student well-being.

Schools were evaluated across nine areas that reflect a comprehensive approach to health and
wellness:
● Strengthening Social-Emotional Health Learning
● Cultivating Staff Well-Being
● Increasing Family & Community Engagement
● Improving Nutrition & Food Access
● Implementing Local School Wellness Policy
● Bolstering Physical Education & Activity
● Enriching Health Education
● Promoting Tobacco-Free Schools
● Supporting School Health Services

Four campuses—Cornerstone Elementary, Dapplegray Elementary, Palos Verdes Peninsula High
School, and Palos Verdes High School—earned the All-Star distinction for meeting standards in all nine categories. The district’s remaining 11 schools were recognized for achievements in one or more areas.

“Wellness is the foundation for learning, growth, and lifelong success,” said Superintendent Dr. Devin Serrano. “This national recognition shines a light on the heart of our district’s focus on health and wellness. We are incredibly proud that all of our elementary, intermediate, and high schools are being celebrated as models of what’s possible when student well-being is truly prioritized.”

This recognition reflects PVPUSD’s commitment to fostering healthy and thriving school communities through strong collaboration with the Palos Verdes Peninsula Council of PTAs Wellness Committee.

“This recognition is a celebration of what families, educators, and community partners can achieve when we come together for our children,” said Margaret Liou, president of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Council of PTAs. “Wellness is not just an initiative; it is a culture we are building across each of our schools. We are proud to stand beside our district as 15 schools are honored nationally, and we pledge to implement continuous improvement as we put health and well-being at the heart of education.”

The America’s Healthiest Schools recognition program highlights schools that are building healthier
environments for students, staff, and families nationwide.

For more information about America’s Healthiest Schools, visit www.HealthierGeneration.org.