Reeves reinstates Presidential Fitness Test in Mississippi schools
- Governor Tate Reeves signs Executive Order 1589 to restore the Presidential Fitness Test statewide
- State officials tasked with developing nutrition and fitness improvement strategies
- Fitness test rollout set for the 2026–2027 academic year
JACKSON, Miss. – Governor Tate Reeves has issued Executive Order 1589, officially reestablishing the Presidential Fitness Test for elementary, middle, and high school students across Mississippi.
The move follows an executive order by former President Donald J. Trump reinstating the President’s Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition and reviving the historic school fitness initiative. Reeves said the measure aims to combat obesity, poor nutrition, and sedentary lifestyles among youth.
“Students across the country are spending far too much time sitting around looking at screens and eating too much highly-processed junk food,” Reeves said. “If we want more healthy adults in our society, it’s important that we encourage students to be physically active and educate them on healthy eating habits. Mississippi will do its part to build a healthier America.”
Under the order, State Health Officer Dr. Daniel Edney will prepare a report for the governor outlining evidence-based strategies and public education campaigns to improve nutrition, diet, and physical activity statewide. Meanwhile, State Superintendent of Education Dr. Lance Evans will coordinate with U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Education Secretary Linda McMahon to propose a plan for implementing the fitness test.
Both reports are due by June 30, 2026, with the Presidential Fitness Test slated to launch in Mississippi schools during the 2026–2027 academic year.
A copy of Executive Order 1589 is available here:
