This guide is the result of the collaboration between the Agency of Agriculture, Food and Markets; Vermont Department of Education; and Vermont Department of Health, as required by Act 161 of the 2003 session of the Vermont Legislature. The goal in publishing these guidelines is to provide schools with the most recent information on best practices for school nutrition and physical fitness that may influence the rates of child and adolescent obesity and enhance academic performance. The guidelines are based on the recommendations of nationally recognized authorities, including the Surgeon General of the United States, the National Association of State Boards of Education, the American Dietetics Association and the National Association of Sports and Physical Education. The guidelines are divided into five sections: (1) Nutrition; (2) Physical Education; (3) Physical Activity; (4) Implementation; and (5) Reporting to the Community. The purpose of this document is to provide guidance for district policy writers. This document is intended for use by districts drafting their own policies. The concepts represent the best practices available today and are reflective of the highest standards to which schools should aspire. Appended are: (1) Definitions; (2) A La Carte Food and Beverage Standards; and (3) Vermont Vending Guidelines.