The Davis School District’s Davis Moves/Healthy Lifestyles department has once again demonstrated its commitment to fostering a healthy and vibrant work environment by winning the Aetna Workplace Well-being Silver Award. This esteemed recognition celebrates organizations that go above and beyond in promoting the physical, mental and emotional well-being of their employees.
Aetna, one of the district's healthcare providers, plays a key role in funding the wellness programs that directly benefit employees. This partnership has not only enhanced the scope and reach of these initiatives but has also contributed to the district’s ability to maintain minimal health insurance rate increases, including no rate increase this past year.
"Aetna has been a great partner in supporting our district's wellness efforts," said Kim Johnson, District Wellness Coordinator.
By the district offering access to services like mammogram buses and low-cost heart scans, they have reduced the need for more costly treatments and fostered a healthier workforce overall.
"It’s been amazing to see our top dollars invested in preventive care, helping us catch issues early and reduce the likelihood of major health events," added Johnson.
Davis School District’s approach is holistic, addressing both physical and mental health. Their physical health initiatives include popular programs like the Davis Dash & Bash, Walking Wednesdays, gym discounts and Wellness Steps, which offer employees discounts on their health insurance. Additionally, the district provides wellness series classes that educate and empower employees to take control of their health.
On the mental and emotional health front, the district offers platforms and apps such as Thrive, Headspace and Calm, all provided at no cost to employees. These tools, along with the Employee Assistance Program, which offers brief counseling and referrals, and Kannact, a healthcare company that focuses on providing personalized health coaching, demonstrate the district’s commitment to supporting the overall well-being of its staff. Mindfulness is also a key component of their approach, encouraging employees to incorporate small, manageable changes into their daily routines.
“We’re proud of the work our district has made to make us shine,” said Johnson. “There is a big misconception when it comes to wellness programs. It is all about moderation and baby steps. Be your very best, start with small things every day. You don't have to give up everything.”
In addition to this groundbreaking recognition from Aetna, the Davis Moves/Healthy Lifestyles department has also earned the Gold Utah Worksite Wellness Award this year. The Utah Worksite Wellness Council (UWWC) Healthy Worksite Awards Program recognizes Utah employers for their exemplary work in worksite wellness and those committed to improving employee health and well-being.
This is the fourth consecutive year Davis School District has won a Utah Worksite Wellness award including a bronze in 2021, a silver and Organizational Innovation award in 2022.
"We were the only school district in the state to win the award," Johnson noted of the district’s unique achievement.
As the Davis School District continues to lead by example in promoting employee wellness, the recognition from Aetna and the Utah Worksite Wellness Council is a testament to the effectiveness of their programs. The district is well-positioned to maintain its status as a leader in workplace well-being.
More about Davis Moves and their programs can be found at Healthy Lifestyles - Davis School District.