Rockwood Staff at the White House

Several members of the Rockwood School District staff were at the White House last week to be recognized for the district's efforts in the Healthier U.S. School Challenge.

Pictured are Kim Pearson, Pond Elementary School nurse (left) and Melissa Messina, a Pond Elementary School teacher. The two staff members were part of a Rockwood delegation to participate in the recognition ceremony at the invitation of First Lady Michelle Obama in celebration of the district’s ongoing efforts to create healthier school environments for students.  The event honored school districts from across the country that achieved the HealthierUS School Challenge.  In 2011, 13 Rockwood elementary schools became the first schools in Missouri to achieve the distinction. 

Rockwood Director of Child Nutrition Services Carmen Fischer was among the guests in attendance.  “It’s wonderful to receive support and recognition from the First Lady for our efforts to teach students about proper nutrition and introduce them to healthy foods,” she said in a Rockwood news release.  “This award highlights Rockwood's attention and commitment toward creating healthy habits in our children."  In addition to Fischer, Pearson and Messina, others attending the White House ceremony were Kristin Davis, dietician supervisor; Meg Brooks, Chesterfield Elementary School principal; and Karen Kieffer, Wild Horse Elementary School principal.