Rowlett Elementary has made history in Garland ISD, becoming the first campus to be named one of America’s Healthiest Schools.

The recognition comes from the Alliance for a Healthier Generation, a national organization that promotes the health of the whole child. Each year, the group spotlights schools across the country that go above and beyond to support student success and lifelong well-being. For 2025, Rowlett Elementary is among 1,120 schools nationwide to earn this distinction.

Schools are recognized in nine categories, including Nutrition and Food Access, Physical Education and Activity, School Health Services, and Family and Community Engagement. Rowlett earned its award for excellence in School Health Services. This area highlights schools that provide regular health screenings, address chronic health needs, and connect families to care within the school or community.

Principal Erin Pacheco said the recognition is a proud moment for the campus. “It is so exciting to see Rowlett Elementary recognized as the first GISD campus on this national list. Our team works together every day to support our students, and this honor reflects all the ways we go above and beyond for the whole child, including academics, health, and wellness. I am incredibly proud of our staff and students for making this possible.”

Rowlett Elementary provides a wide range of health programs, from dental sealants for third graders to routine screenings for vision, hearing, and scoliosis. Students with chronic conditions, such as asthma and diabetes, receive coordinated care through the use of action plans and regular communication with their healthcare providers. Staff members also connect families with community resources to ensure students have access to the support they need.

Christy Hedgecock, the campus PE teacher, said the award reflects the school’s comprehensive approach. “When I saw there was a category for School Health Services, I thought we had a chance because of all the things our campus already does. We provide care that goes beyond PE, supporting students in all aspects of their growth. I applied, thinking it was a long shot, but here we are as the only GISD school named one of America’s Healthiest Schools. It’s exciting to see our work recognized.”

Being recognized for Student Health Services is a particular point of pride for the school nurse, Abby Wilson. “From coordinating routine health screenings to supporting students with chronic conditions like asthma and diabetes, and connecting families with community resources, our goal is to make sure every child is healthy and ready to learn,” she said. “I’m proud of the work we do every day to support our students and help them thrive.”

Since launching America’s Healthiest Schools in 2007, Healthier Generation has recognized more than 3,300 campuses across the nation. Rowlett Elementary now joins that legacy, setting a new bar for what student health looks like in public education.

The Rowlett Elementary Bobcats are unmatched, built different, and now stand among the nation’s healthiest schools.