‘Iolani School is the First School in the Nation to Become a Certified Blue Zones Worksite!

‘Iolani School celebrated becoming the first school in the nation to become a Certified Blue Zones Worksite^®. Getting certified challenges community organizations and companies to take a systemic approach to improving well-being through policy, building design, social networks, and workplace environment. 

“As a former student, teacher, alumnus, coach, and now Board Chair, I can’t tell you how proud I am that my alma mater is a leader in our community and example to our state in health and well-being,” – Mark Mugiishi, M.D., President and CEO at HMSA

To meet the certification standards, ‘Iolani School implemented a variety of health and well-being programs, including:

• Healthier choices on their lunch menu, in the faculty lounge, and in vending machines throughout campus.
• A lunch cart that offers healthier options, like plant-based soups and fresh produce.
• Professional development days, which include well-being offerings.
• Increased access to and encouragement of volunteer opportunities in the community.
• Complimentary well-being programs, including power core boot camp, walking groups, morning meditation, a prayer hui, Pilates, Zumba, weight training, and more. 

“We have always prioritized the importance of being a community that encourages wellness in the workplace, both physically and mentally. Our Blue Zones Project worksite certification is a reflection of how we support each other in this effort. We believe that creating an environment and providing programming to enable our faculty and staff to thrive in these areas are equally important as the environment we create for our students.” – Dr. Timothy Cottrell, Head of School at ‘Iolani School

In addition to securing a worksite certification, ‘Iolani School is also an approved Blue Zones Project Approved™ school. This approval recognizes ‘Iolani's dedication and commitment to supporting student well-being. They’re helping students excel in the classroom and beyond by caring for their physical, emotional, and social health. Some of the school’s pledges include:

• A tobacco-free policy, which strictly prohibits smoking and e-cigarettes on school property.
• Ensuring food and beverages served on campus outside school hours meet the USDA Smart Snacks in School nutrition standards.
• Working with Sodexo to provide environmentally friendly utensils and serving containers. 
• Updating cafeteria equipment to support provision of healthier foods.
• Physical activity that extends beyond physical education classes into the wider curriculum.
• Including nutrition education in courses such as biology and anatomy.
• Support for the social and emotional well-being of students during distance learning through programs such as Raider Life.

On April 6, 2021, HMSA, Blue Zones Project, and ‘Iolani School celebrated this milestone accomplishment with HMSA-sponsored gift bags, healthy snacks and a raffle to win one of several baskets of produce and plants grown in the 'Iolani campus gardens. To improve the health and well-being of the people of Hawai‘i, HMSA encourages organizations to take an active role in supporting their communities. To learn more about how you can become a Certified Blue Zones Worksite or Blue Zones Project Approved organization, visit www.bzphawaii.com. 

Join the Well-Being Movement!

Email our team to learn more about partnering with us to make healthy choices easier at your worksite, school, grocery store, restaurant, or faith-based organization.
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Learn more at www.bzphawaii.com