Cleveland City Schools has been recognized as a Silver Level recipient in the Tennessee School Boards Association (TSBA) Healthier Schools Challenge, earning a $5,000 award for advancing student wellness and creating healthier learning environments.
This statewide recognition honors districts that go above and beyond to promote student well-being through coordinated health initiatives. Cleveland City Schools met 10 of 13 measurable criteria, reflecting a strong commitment to the whole child, access to care, and community partnerships.
During the 2024–2025 school year, the district’s Coordinated School Health program provided 2,257 student health screenings, resulting in referrals for vision and hearing care, as well as preventive dental treatments through the Tennessee Department of Health’s Dental Sealant Program. The district also offered telemedicine services, supported anti-vaping and drug prevention education, and hosted Michael DeLeon of Steered Straight, whose presentation encouraged students to make positive choices and even led to more than 28 vapes being voluntarily turned in.
Cleveland City Schools launched a staff wellness program for school board members called “Lead the Way: Wellness BINGO,” and strengthened community partnerships, resulting in a 23 percent increase in in-kind contributions, totaling more than $600,000 in support for student wellness efforts.
The district also established a formal partnership with Centerstone to expand access to mental and behavioral health services for students.
District leaders accepted the award during the TSBA Annual Convention in Nashville, joining schools across Tennessee that are committed to connecting wellness and academics.
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