AUSTIN, Texas – The Mayor’s Health & Well-Being Council (MHWC) recognized 32 MHWC Exemplary Schools, the winners of the Mayor’s Healthiest Schools Awards, and three new Faith-Community Health Partners during a ceremony at Austin City Hall. These honors spotlight schools and faith communities across Austin/Travis County that are implementing best practices to advance health and well-being.
 
Award Ceremony Highlights:

New Faith-Community Health Partners
Three local congregations were welcomed into MHWC’s wellness initiative:

• St. Mary Missionary Baptist Church
• New Hope Missionary Baptist Church
• Friends Meeting of Austin

 
Mayor’s Healthiest Schools Award ($1,000 each)
For schools with standout physical education programs, daily movement opportunities, and smart nutrition policies:

• Parmer Lane Elementary (Pflugerville ISD)
• Kelly Lane Middle School (Pflugerville ISD)

District Changemaker Award ($400 each)
For schools inspiring district-wide wellness innovation:

• Rodriguez ES (Austin ISD)
• Smith ES (Del Valle ISD)
• Copperfield ES (Pflugerville ISD)

Positive Pulse Award
For schools creating lasting, measurable health impact:

• Baty ES (Del Valle ISD)
• Blackshear ES (Austin ISD)

 
In total, 32 schools earned MHWC Exemplary School status this year, and were honored for leading the way with comprehensive policies and programming in physical activity, mental health, nutrition, tobacco-free living, and more.
 

About the Mayor’s Health & Well-Being Council
The Mayor’s Health & Well-Being Council (MHWC) partners with the City of Austin and Austin Public Health to encourage schools, worksites, and faith-based organizations to improve community health through evidence-based policies and programs. Established in 2004, MHWC supports efforts across nutrition, mental health, physical activity, tobacco-free living, and Mother-Friendly practices. For more information, visit mhwcaustin.org or contact info@mhwcaustin.org.