In its recent Notice of Funding Opportunity, Improving Student Health and Academic Achievement through Nutrition, Physical Activity and the Management of Chronic Conditions in Schools, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has included implementation of the National AfterSchool Association Healthy Eating and Physical Activity (HEPA) Standards for Out-of-School Time.

NAA has championed HEPA Standards since 2011. Together with the Healthy Out-of-School Time Coalition, we are dedicated to bridging the gap between families, communities and schools with practical resources and informed policy. Quality afterschool is healthy afterschool: Physical activity, fruit and vegetable intake, and healthy hydration ensure afterschool professionals and leaders can do what they do best—help children and families be successful.

The funding opportunity targets state governments—specifically, State Education Agencies (SEAs). We believe this opportunity will strengthen partnerships between afterschool programs and schools while fostering more healthy out-of-school time champions. NAA is committed to providing engaging learning opportunities that connect afterschool professional leaders with resources and tools they need to bring HEPA standards to life.

This is an opportunity to celebrate and to share with others! To learn more, visit Grants.Gov and search for the funding announcement number CDC.RFA.DP18.1801.