Water in schools

What that means in practice

The law sets a floor. It covers the cafeteria at lunch. It doesn't say how cold the water is, how easy it is to reach, or whether kids can carry a bottle to class. Those are local decisions, so they're worth asking about.

Questions to ask your school

These are our suggestions, not legal requirements. A friendly question to the principal, school nurse or school food service director is often enough.

• Where can kids get water at lunch? Is it a cup, a fountain, a bottle filler? Does anyone know it's there?
• Is water available all day, in classrooms, hallways and the gym?
• Can kids keep a water bottle at their desk?
• Do the fountains and bottle fillers work, and are they clean?
• At practices and games, is water the default, and is there a water break?
• What drinks are sold in school stores, vending machines and at fundraisers?

For teachers

• Let kids bring a water bottle and refill it. A water break takes 30 seconds.
• Skip sugary drinks as party or reward treats. Ask families to do the same.
• Use our free printables: the water tracker, Sugar Detective and the 7-day water challenge.

Bring this to your school

Our Healthy Hydration for Children program is a free classroom kit. Teachers can request it on that page.

Common questions

Do schools have to provide free water?

Federal law requires schools that take part in the National School Lunch Program to make drinking water available for free in the cafeteria during lunch. Your state or district may require more.

Can my child bring a water bottle to school?

Most schools allow it, but policies are set locally. Ask your school or check the student handbook.