When high schools in Spotsylvania County unveiled the “healthy club” sandwich last year, cafeteria employees sold just three or four a day.

After school officials removed the “healthy” from the sandwich’s name, daily purchases quadrupled, said Jessica Escobar, regional district manager for Chartwells Dining Services.

It’s not always easy persuading young adults to adopt a healthy lifestyle, but school districts across the country are being put to the task. Under federal law, the nation’s schools had until July 1 to approve written wellness policies.

Spotsylvania officials say they’re ahead of the curve, noting changes to their school menus and vending machine options. They’ve even surveyed 80 students, who recommended foods and ways to increase physical activity.

“We knew this wellness initiative was right around the corner,” said Nancy Farrell, a dietitian for the county’s schools. “We tried to be as proactive as we could.”

By the end of the last school year, officials had eliminated sodas from middle and high school vending machines. And the schools’ snack machines are now limited to items with 200 calories or less—such as granola bars, pretzels and baked chips.

Lynne Fellin, a nutrition specialist who is monitoring Virginia’s wellness policies, said only 28 high schools in the state still offer sodas during eating hours.

As for its lunch options, high school cafeterias in Spotsylvania now include “grab and go salads” and “sandwich central,” as well as a grill station.

This year, officials are expecting to phase in paninis, as well as fruit smoothies.

At the elementary school level, a mascot called “Pyramid Pete” shared some nutritional tips with youngsters for the first time last year.

In Fredericksburg, school officials have eliminated whole milk, sugar-coated cereals, honey buns and donuts from the breakfast menu. And this year, they’re hoping to introduce items such as yogurt and turkey sausage.

“I think we have a responsibility to feed them healthy” foods, said Gail Stone, director of administration and instruction for the city’s schools.

Fellin said it’s up to representatives from each school district to evaluate the results of their policies at the end of the year.

“What this wellness policy is about is having consistent messages for nutrition and physical activity throughout the school day,” she said. “In order for students to be prepared to learn the academic subjects, their bodies need to be well fed and active.”

Farrell, the Spotsylvania schools dietitian, has met privately with several students to discuss their eating habits. She hopes parents and school officials will work together as the district’s wellness policy evolves.

“I don’t think schools need to take full ownership of this, but certainly are a key player and in a position to be a wonderful role model for the health of our children,” she said.

To reach JEFF BRANSCOME: 540/374-5402 jbranscome@freelancestar.com