NE Valley Times

Echo Canyon School Becomes Arizona’s First Blue Zones-Approved School

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. (May 31, 2024) – Echo Canyon School has achieved Blue Zones Approved™ status, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to fostering a culture of well-being and better health within its community. This recognition is part of the Blue Zones Project Scottsdale.

“Today is really important because we are celebrating one of the features of Echo Canyon that makes it really extraordinary in terms of its learning environment,” said Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD) Superintendent Dr. Scott Menzel, who serves on the Blue Zones Scottsdale steering committee. “When the Blue Zones project was starting and they were talking about community gardens and schools, the first place I recommended they visit was Echo Canyon.”

Echo Canyon School, located at 4330 N. 62nd St., began the process in December 2023. The achievement reflects the collaborative efforts of teachers, staff, parents, students, and community partners. Principal Kat Hughes described the journey as both inspiring and transformative.

“Through the use of our gardens, our Chef in the Garden program, learning activities in our classrooms and outside, our wonderful café staff, and our great business partners, we were able to highlight everything we do to help support students to make healthy food and drink choices," Hughes said.

Danielle Anderson from Blue Zones Project Scottsdale noted Echo Canyon's early engagement due to their existing programs promoting healthy living. “Their commitment is evident through initiatives such as their community garden and Chef in the Classroom program with Blue Watermelon Project," she shared.

SUSD plans to introduce some Blue Zones-approved menu items in school cafeterias next year. Episode 9 of SUSD’s Spotlight podcast will feature discussions on this partnership with guests Patti Bilbrey and Sarah Kearney.

For more information about SUSD or to follow updates on social media platforms like Facebook (@ScottsdaleUSD), X (@ScottsdaleUSD), Instagram (@ScottsdaleUnifiedSD), LinkedIn, and YouTube.