Lucille Roybal-Allard Elementary School has once again been recognized as one of America’s Healthiest Schools in 2026, according to a report from a national nonprofit organization. This marks the third consecutive year the school has earned this national distinction.

Located in Huntington Park, this school is among 27 schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District honored by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation for adopting best practices in various health-related areas.

Roybal-Allard Elementary received accolades in three categories: school health services, social-emotional health and learning, and family and community engagement. Other evaluated categories included nutrition and food access, as well as staff well-being.

This year, the Alliance recognized a total of 1,376 schools across 35 states and Washington, D.C.

HEALTH RESOURCES TO TRHIVE

“Our schools are community assets where students can access nutrition, physical and mental health support, and other essential resources they need to thrive,” stated LAUSD Board Member Karla Griego in a press release. Griego, whose District 5 includes Roybal-Allard Elementary, said students can concentrate better and achieve academic success when their immediate needs are met. She expressed her appreciation for both Lucille Roybal-Allard Elementary School and the other 26 schools that prioritize students’ holistic needs and develop strategies to support this mission.

Superintendent Andrés E. Chait also expressed pride in the 27 schools for their efforts to promote health and wellness in their communities. “This honor reflects the strong leadership and partnerships necessary to ensure that every student is healthy, prepared to grow, and able to thrive in school and beyond. I am deeply grateful to everyone who contributes to this success,” he stated in the same press release.

A FIGH AGAINST CHILDHOOD OBESITY

The Alliance for a Healthier Generation is a national nonprofit organization focused on children’s health. Founded in 2005 by the American Heart Association and the Clinton Foundation, its mission is to combat childhood obesity and support comprehensive childhood health. Headquartered in Portland, Oregon, the organization collaborates with schools, communities, and businesses to ensure that every child has access to healthy environments, nutritious foods, and opportunities for physical activity.

“Physical and mental health are essential to student success,” said Dr. Smita Malhotra, Chief Medical Director of Los Angeles Unified. “We are proud of all our schools for their ongoing efforts to support the well-being of the whole child, and we are especially honored to see so many of our schools receive this national recognition. Their commitment to creating healthy, supportive environments helps ensure that every student feels safe, connected, and ready to learn.”

Roybal-Allard Elementary was also recognized as one of America’s Healthiest Schools in both 2024 and 2025.

–Cesar Arredondo