Staff Reports | Community Updates
Grayhawk Elementary School has officially become the first school in the Paradise Valley Unified School District to achieve Blue Zones approval, which marks a major milestone in the effort to bring healthier habits to the Valley’s youngest residents.
The recognition comes as part of the Blue Zones Project Scottsdale, a community well-being initiative powered by HonorHealth and inspired by the lifestyles of the world’s longest-living people, according to a press release.
The project aims to make healthy choices easier through changes to environments, policies, and social networks, the release states.
“Our students are building lifelong habits, and this partnership reinforces the importance of well-being in every part of the school day,” said Grayhawk Principal Eli Hubbell, in a prepared statement. “From mindful movement breaks to encouraging healthy snacks and fostering kindness, we’re seeing positive shifts in student focus, energy and behavior.”
To become a Blue Zones school, Grayhawk implemented a range of initiatives, including active classrooms, healthy celebrations, student-led gardens, and wellness-focused staff support. The school also collaborated with parents and community partners to reinforce Blue Zones principles such as moving naturally, having purpose, and connecting with others both in and out of the classroom, school officials say.
“The Blue Zones Project is about helping people live better, longer—and it’s never too early to start,” Mr. Hubbell said. “Teaching kids these principles now plants the seeds for a healthier future for them and their families.”
HonorHealth has been a leading force in bringing Blue Zones Project to Scottsdale, working alongside local leaders, schools, and businesses to create environments that support health and happiness.
