Body Mass Index (BMI) is used to determine whether a student is within a normal growth pattern, overweight, at risk of becoming overweight, or underweight. BMI is calculated by dividing the weight (in kg.) by the height (in meters) squared. 

By using BMI growth charts, a child's BMI can be determined by their specific age and sex. Children are considered overweight when their BMI value is at or above the 95th percentile. They are at risk for being overweight when their BMI value is between the 85th and 95th percentile and underweight if their BMI is below the 5th percentile. BMI should be considered a screening tool and not a definitive measure of overweight and obesity as the index does have limitations. For example, athletes and other physically active students may have a high BMI due to their increased muscle mass, which weighs more that fat mass.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health requires that the school nurse calculate each student's BMI and share this information with parents. If you have any questions about this procedure, please feel free to contact Mrs. Poper at 597-3226 x10516.

 To learn more go to BMI Calculator.