CHARLESTON, W.Va. (AP) — West Virginia is getting more than $300,000 in federal funding to promote healthy meals in schools.

The $346,515 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture will be used to help schools meet new meal requirements, encourage students to choose healthy foods and encourage participation in the HealthierUS School Challenge.

West Virginia is among 18 states and one territory that received grants totaling about $5.2 million.

Agriculture Deputy Secretary Kathleen Merrigan says in a news release that serving healthy school meals to students is an investment in their academic performance, their health and their future.