September 10, 2026 — Each year, the Alliance for a Healthier Generation recognizes schools across the country that go above and beyond to promote a healthy environment for students, teachers, and families.

This year, Palmer Middle School was named one of America’s Healthiest Schools, joining 10 other Cobb schools on the 2026 list. Palmer earned recognition in five categories: School Health Services, Physical Education and Activity, Staff Well-Being, Local School Wellness Policy, and Social-Emotional Health and Learning.

Palmer was among the 1,376 schools named across 35 states.

Each school that applied for recognition was evaluated in nine categories: School Health Services, Implementing School Wellness Policies, Improving Food and Nutrition Access, Bolstering Physical Education and Activity, Enriching Health Education, Increasing Family and Community Engagement, Cultivating Staff Wellbeing, Promoting Tobacco-Free Schools, and Strengthening Social-Emotional Health and Learning. 

Schools that excelled in at least one category earned recognition as one of America’s Healthiest Schools. Palmer was one of two Cobb schools recognized in five or more categories.

How Palmer Supports Healthy Students

• School Health Services — Routine health screenings and a clear process for connecting students with additional support when health concerns arise.
• Physical Education and Activity — An evidence-based curriculum that integrates physical activity opportunities throughout the school day for all students, including students with special health needs.
• Staff Well-Being — Providing resources to support breaks for all staff during the instructional day, actively promoting staff relationship-building, and fostering a culture of gratitude among colleagues.
• Local School Wellness Policy — Implementation of district wellness policy with the support of a diverse set of representatives, set measurable goals, and reflect on progress, successes, and challenges.
• Social-Emotional Health and Learning — Positively motivating participation and learning, implementing an evidence-based social-emotional learning curriculum, and providing opportunities for students to regulate their emotions and learn from their mistakes.

Together, these recognitions reflect what Palmer families already know: supporting the health, well-being, and success of each student remains a priority every day.