Pattonville earns Business Health Culture Award recognizing employee wellness program

The Pattonville School District received the 2025 Business Health Culture Award by the Gateway Business Health Coalition (BHC). The award, established in 2014, recognizes organizations that demonstrate innovation and excellence in promoting employee and family well-being. Pattonville was presented with the award at the Gateway Health Coalition’s 43rd Annual Meeting on Nov. 5.

“We are honored to receive the BHC Business Health Culture Award,” director of community and staff engagement JoAnn Greenwell said. “This award reflects the incredible commitment of our employees, who not only serve students each day but also support one another in creating a healthy and positive workplace. Supporting staff well-being is essential because when our employees thrive, our students and community benefit as well. We are especially grateful for the leadership of our wellness captains, whose efforts help foster a culture where health and balance are valued across the district.”

Pattonville received the award to honor the district’s leadership in creating a supportive and healthy environment for staff and their families. Pattonville relaunched its wellness program in 2022 with an emphasis on engagement and innovative programming that support both physical and mental well-being. Initiatives include videos promoting programs and opportunities and simple reminders of healthy habits, such as placing an apple on every staff member’s desk. Pattonville also partners with a dedicated health clinic that offers primary, chronic and sick care for free to all staff. This year, the district saw a 12% increase in clinic utilization, a sign that employees are accessing care when and where they need it.

A network of 28 wellness captains leads building-level efforts and encourages participation throughout the district. Of those captains, 13 have served in the role all four years the program has been active, highlighting the district’s ability to cultivate and retain leaders who help sustain a positive culture. In 2023, Pattonville received a five-year grant from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Missouri Healthy Schools, focused on strengthening the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child model. Through the grant, Pattonville collaborates with the CDC to evaluate progress on staff wellness goals and integrate data-driven practices into its programming.

“As a BHC member and community partner, Pattonville demonstrates how employers can lead the way in advancing employee and community well-being,” BHC president and CEO Laurel Pickering said. “Their commitment to innovation, engagement and culture-building sets a powerful example for organizations across the region.”