It’s now easier for students and staff at 54 Iowa schools, including 18 Greater Des Moines schools, to feel the numerous health benefits of drinking optimally fluoridated water throughout the day. Through a partnership led by Delta Dental of Iowa Foundation, Elkay water bottle filling stations were recently installed in these schools to update or replace existing water fountains. In addition, more than 40 of these schools applied for and received $500 to design and implement an educational campaign to encourage students to drink more water. Studies show that more than 50 percent of children and teens are not properly hydrated during the school day, and often choose caffeinated beverages, sports drinks or energy drinks. The $230,000 investment by Delta Dental of Iowa Foundation was supported by the Iowa Department of Public Health’s Bureau of Nutrition and Health Promotion, the Iowa Public Health Association, the Iowa Department of Education and Balfrey & Johnston Inc. Signs in the schools will draw attention to the new water bottle filling stations, and “Rethink Your Drink” water bottles, toothbrushes, posters and bookmarks will be shared with students to support educational activities organized by the schools. Other Iowa schools interested in applying for a water bottle filling station can do so in early May.