Local districts named in America's Healthiest Schools

Twelve Washington County schools and Johnson City's Towne Acres Elementary School have been named among America's Healthiest Schools for 2026, earning national recognition specifically for their school health services. The Alliance for a Healthier Generation, a national nonprofit focused on children's health, recognized 1,376 K-12 schools nationwide for their efforts to support student health. Johnson City's Towne Acres Elementary School was among the schools recognized, with Principal Richard Hutson saying the school was honored to receive the distinction. "This recognition reflects our commitment to creating a healthy, supportive learning environment where students are encouraged to develop positive habits that promote their physical, mental and emotional well-being," Hutson said. Hutson credited school nurse Tatsiana Yavas and the entire school staff for the recognition. "Towne Acres has implemented strategies including providing professional learning to all staff (including non-instructional staff) on defining triggers, assessing staff preferences regarding physical activity/fitness programs at least once per year and providing inclusive content on self-care, boundaries and stress management for staff," Hutson said. The 12 Washington County Schools recognized are Boones Creek Elementary, Daniel Boone High, David Crockett High, Fall Branch Elementary, Grandview Elementary, Gray Elementary, Jonesborough Elementary, Lamar School, Ridgeview Elementary, South Central Elementary, Sulphur Springs School and West View Elementary. Washington County Schools Director of Coordinated School Health Kelly Wagner said the recognition reflects work across the district. "This national recognition reflects the outstanding work of our school nurses, Coordinated School Health team, administrators, teachers, staff, families and community partners who understand that supporting the health and well-being of our students is essential to helping them learn, grow and succeed," Wagner said. The health services distinction recognizes schools that provide services such as routine health screenings, referrals to health care resources and support for students with chronic health conditions. The Alliance for a Healthier Generation said recognized schools must have qualified staff overseeing health services, use evidence-based procedures, provide staff training, follow national referral and screening guidelines and maintain partnerships with health care providers. The organization has partnered with more than 57,000 school communities across all 50 states since 2005.