LOS ANGELES — Twenty-seven Los Angeles Unified schools were recognized among America’s Healthiest Schools in 2026 on a list published by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, acknowledging these schools’ role in advancing the health and well-being of students, staff and families.
The national recognition celebrates schools that implement best practices in areas such as school health services, nutrition and food access, physical education and physical activity, social-emotional health and learning, staff well-being, and family and community engagement.
In 2026, the Alliance recognized 1,376 schools across 35 states and Washington, D.C.
“We are incredibly proud of these 27 schools for going above and beyond to promote health and wellness in their communities,” Superintendent Andrés E. Chait said. “This honor reflects the high caliber of leadership and partnerships required to ensure that every student is healthy and ready to grow and thrive in school and beyond. I am deeply grateful to everyone who makes this possible.”
America’s Healthiest Schools is an annual recognition program of the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. The program highlights schools that demonstrate a commitment to creating healthier learning environments for students, staff and families.
"LAUSD is committed to supporting our entire community beyond academics, but also on a physical, mental, emotional, and social level," Board President Scott M. Schmerelson said. "I am happy that these investments are paying dividends for our students, teachers, staff, and families, and we now see 27 LAUSD schools make the list of America's Healthiest Schools. I especially want to congratulate my Board District 3 school, Columbus Avenue Elementary School, for making the list and showing what our district can do for them in all aspects of their lives."
"I’m proud to see three Board District 2 schools, Euclid Avenue Community School, Sunrise Elementary, and William R. Anton Elementary, recognized among America’s Healthiest Schools," Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas said. "This honor reflects the commitment of our students, educators, staff, and families to creating healthy, supportive school communities where every child can thrive."
"Students learn better when they are healthy, happy, and supported in their school communities,” Board Member Nick Melvoin said. “By fostering our kids’ health and well-being, we are creating a space for them to grow and thrive. Congratulations to all the L.A. Unified award winners—especially Sutter Middle School and Vanalden Elementary in Board District 4!"
"Our schools are community assets where students can access nutrition, physical and mental health supports, and other resources they need to thrive,” Board Member Karla Griego said. “When students’ immediate needs are met, they are better able to focus and succeed academically. Shoutout to Lucille Roybal-Allard Elementary School and the other 26 schools who prioritize students' holistic needs and develop school-level strategies to support this work.”
“Congratulations to our schools recognized as among America’s Healthiest!” Board Member Kelly Gonez said. “At Los Angeles Unified, we are committed to meeting the needs of the whole child, and that includes the physical, social, and emotional needs of students. Recognitions like this one show that the comprehensive supports we provide are working.”
“Congratulations to all our 27 LAUSD schools for being recognized as America’s Healthiest Schools in 2026 and a special shout-out to my 9 BD7 schools!” Board Member Tany Ortiz-Franklin said. “This recognition reflects the commitment of our educators, staff, students, and families for creating healthier school communities with access to nutritious food, opportunities for physical activity, and welcoming spaces.”
The 27 Los Angeles Unified schools included on the 2026 list were recognized for implementing one or more health-focused practices. Several Los Angeles Unified schools received recognition in multiple areas, including school health services, nutrition and food access, social-emotional health and learning, staff well-being, and family and community engagement.
“Physical and mental health are essential to student success,” said Los Angeles Unified’s Chief Medical Director, Dr. Smita Malhotra. “We are proud of all our schools for their ongoing efforts to support the well-being of the whole child, and we are especially honored to see so many of our schools receive this national recognition. Their commitment to creating healthy, supportive environments helps ensure that every student feels safe, connected and ready to learn.”
The recognized Los Angeles Unified schools represent communities throughout the Los Angeles area.
Region North
Arminta Street Elementary School
Columbus Avenue Elementary School
Fernangeles Elementary School
Gridley–Montañez Dual Language Academy
Herrick Avenue Elementary School
John Sutter Middle School
Sharp Avenue Elementary School
Valerio Street Elementary School
Vanalden Avenue Elementary School
Region East
Euclid Avenue Community School
Lucille Roybal–Allard Elementary School
Sunrise Elementary School
William R. Anton Elementary School
Region South
74th Street Elementary School
93rd Street Elementary School
Bandini Street Elementary School
Cabrillo Avenue Elementary School
Caroldale Learning Community STEAM Academy
Catskill Avenue Elementary School
Florence Griffith Joyner Elementary School
Fries Ave Elementary / STEAM Academy
George Washington Preparatory High School
Harte Preparatory Middle School
Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School
Purche Avenue Elementary School and STEAM Magnet
South Park Elementary School
Region West
Marlton School