Presidential Fitness Test coming back to schools next school year, by order of Governor

Governor Tate Reeves today issued Executive Order 1589 to reestablish the Presidential Fitness Test for elementary, middle and high school students across Mississippi. Executive Order 1589 comes after President Donald J. Trump issued an executive order that reestablished the President's Council on Sports, Fitness and Nutrition and reinstituted the Presidential Fitness Test.

"Students across the country are spending far too much time sitting around looking at screens and eating too much highly-processed junk food," said Governor Tate Reeves.

"We know that obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and poor nutrition lead to more negative health outcomes. 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."

Executive Order 1589 directs State Health Officer Dr. Daniel Edney to deliver a report to Governor Reeves that proposes evidence-based strategies and suggests public information/education campaigns to address deficiencies in nutrition, diet and exercise across the state. Additionally, it requests that State Superintendent of Education Dr. Lance Evans work with United States Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Secretary of Education Linda McMahon to create a report for Governor Reeves that proposes a plan for reestablishing the Presidential Fitness Test. Both reports are due to Governor Reeves on June 30, 2026.

The Presidential Fitness Test will be implemented in Mississippi during the 2026-2027 academic year.

A copy of Executive Order 1589 can be found here.