Laurel High Teacher Selected as Health Initiative Champion

A teacher has been selected as a leader in a national health initiative.

Henrique Vissotto, a foreign language teacher at Laurel High School, is among 21 educators nationwide selected as Healthy Schools Program Champions by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation.

The program was launched in 2006 by the American Heart Association and the William J. Clinton Foundation. In Laurel, students and staff were encouraged to embrace new health and fitness initiatives such as more nutritional choices in the cafeteria and vending machines.

Vegetables from the school garden are used in culinary arts classes where teachers show students and staff how to prepare healthier meals. The school has also implemented daily walks, Zumba classes and sports activities. In December, the school will launch a student-led health club, offer a healthy breakfast once a week and announce daily health tips.

Prince George’s County Public Schools Superintendent William R. Hite applauded Laurel High’s efforts.

 “With rising obesity rates and medical concerns, it is vital that we encourage students to make healthier choices when it comes to meals and physical activity,” Hite said in a statement.  “Congratulations to Mr. Vissotto for being a Healthy Schools Program Champion.”