2026-2027 Healthy Behaviors School District Partnership Grant

The public and non-public school districts in The Rapides Foundation's service area are invited to apply for the 2026-2027 Healthy Behaviors Initiative School District Partnership Grant, which seeks to prevent and reduce tobacco use, substance and alcohol abuse, and overweight/obesity by focusing on implementation of CDC's Whole School, Whole Child, Whole Community (WSCC) model and required policy (such as a District/School Wellness policy). The WSCC model is CDC's framework for addressing health in schools. It is student-centered and emphasizes the role of the community in supporting the school, the connections between health and academic achievement and the importance of evidence-based school policies and practices. The goal is to provide students, staff and teachers with the knowledge and skills necessary to make better and more informed behavior decisions leading to healthier lives. Note: There is now an option for schools to receive CATCH Physical Education Curriculum and Equipment. Also, the Youth Summit is only avaliable through participation in Youth Health Advocates activities.  

Grant funds will be disbursed at the district level and are based on the number of participating schools and the category of activities each school selects from the School Participation Table. All schools are encouraged to participate. Complete details about grant requirements and the grant submission process can be found in the Healthy Behaviors School District Partnership Grant Commitment Form located in the Key Materials section in the right column. Please review the document thoroughly prior to submission. Required grant attachments are also located in the Key Materials section.

District Coordinators must offer the grant opportunity to all schools in the school district, compile the information, and then complete the online grant forms and required attachments using the Foundation’s online application process. (see Proposal link in right column.)