WINDHAM PUBLIC SCHOOLS CELEBRATES NATCHAUG ELEMENTARY AS ONE OF "AMERICA’S HEALTHIEST SCHOOLS" FOR SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR
WILLIMANTIC, CT (August 17, 2026) — Windham Public Schools is thrilled to announce that Natchaug Elementary School has once again been named one of America’s Healthiest Schools for 2026 by the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. This prestigious national award celebrates schools that have demonstrated unwavering commitment to advancing the health, well-being, and academic success of their students.
This marks the second time Natchaug Elementary has received this distinction. The school made history in 2025 when it was the only school in the entire state of Connecticut to make the Alliance’s list, setting a gold standard for student wellness.
This year, Natchaug joins 1,377 K-12 schools nationwide in receiving the 2026 honor and has expanded its portfolio of excellence, earning awards in four distinct health-related topic areas: Strengthening Social Emotional Health & Learning, Improving Nutrition & Food Access, Bolstering Physical Education & Activity, and Supporting School Health Services.
Superintendent of Windham Public Schools, Dr. Iris Gomero, praised the achievement.
"We are extraordinarily proud of the Natchaug Elementary community for achieving this national distinction for a second year in a row," said Dr. Gomero. "Last year, Natchaug set the standard as the only school in Connecticut to make this list. Their expanded recognition in 2026 is a testament to our unwavering belief that true academic success is rooted in the physical, emotional, and nutritional well-being of every child.”
Natchaug Principal Jeannine Enamait added, “We provide our students access to culturally rich and engaging curriculum and instruction opportunities to produce knowledgeable, creative, and critical thinkers who will be life long learners. We believe in providing safe, joyful, and inclusive learning environments.”
The Alliance for a Healthier Generation’s annual award program, supported by Del Monte Foods, Kaiser Permanente, and Kohl’s Cares, recognizes schools for implementing evidence-based policies and practices that support lifelong well-being.
Windham Public Schools congratulates the students, families, and staff of Natchaug Elementary School on this extraordinary and hard-earned achievement.
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Matt Caron
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