HERRIN, IL — This week, Herrin schools are turning the cafeteria into a laboratory of flavor. From April 20–24, Herrin Community Unit School District No. 4 is proudly celebrating Every Kid Healthy™ Week, an annual nationwide observance dedicated to school health and wellness achievements.
Launched by Action for Healthy Kids (AFHK) in 2013, the week shines a spotlight on the vital link between nutrition, physical activity, mental health, and student success. As an organization, Action for Healthy Kids works to ensure that all children have the heart, mind, and body to learn and thrive by partnering with schools to implement sustainable wellness programs.
The Main Squeeze: Pineapple Taste Tests
To celebrate, students across the district are participating in interactive Fresh Pineapple Taste Tests. This hands-on event encourages students to step outside their culinary comfort zones and explore the vibrant world of tropical fruit.
But the experience doesn't end with a snack. We are inviting students to become "Flavor Critics," providing direct feedback on the sweet and tangy fruit. This student-led feedback loop helps our nutrition team understand student preferences while empowering the children to take ownership of their healthy eating habits.
Nutrition Made Fun: The "Tiger Bites" Resource Library
The celebration of health isn't confined to the school walls. Herrin schools are committed to supporting families in their wellness journeys year-round through our Tiger Bites resource library.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to visit www.herrinschools.org/tigerbites, where "Nutrition Made Fun" comes to life. The Tiger Bites articles offer a variety of resources, including:
Global Flavor Tours: Educational tools like "Exploring Breakfasts Across the Globe."
Monthly Wellness Challenges: Interactive activities like the "Fruit-a-licious Challenge."
Family Tips: Evidence-based advice on sneaking more nutrients into daily meals and making healthy choices at home.
"Healthy kids are better prepared to learn and thrive," says Jeannine Coffey, the District Food Service Director. "By combining fun activities like our pineapple taste tests, classroom curriculum, and accessible Tiger Bites resources, we’re showing our students that nutrition isn’t just a requirement—it’s an adventure."
For more information on Every Kid Healthy Week activities or to explore the Tiger Bites library, please visit our website at www.herrinschools.org.
A Week of Wellness: The 2026 Schedule
Every Kid Healthy Week is structured to address the "whole child," with each day focusing on a different pillar of health. Our pineapple taste tests are a highlight of Tasty Tuesday, but the momentum continues all week long:
Mindfulness Monday (April 20): Focusing on mental health and emotional wellness.
Tasty Tuesday (April 21): Hands-on nutrition education and fruit taste tests.
Wellness Wednesday (April 22): Prioritizing physical activity and getting bodies moving.
Thoughtful Thursday (April 23): Education on vaping and nicotine prevention.
Family Friday (April 24): Celebrating family engagement and bringing healthy habits home.
About Action for Healthy Kids® Action for Healthy Kids is a national non-profit organization that mobilizes school professionals, families, and communities to take actions that lead to healthier schools. Their mission is to ensure every kid is healthy, active, and ready to learn.