Monday's Internet Edition, January 05, 2009.
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First grader Melony Hunt jumps a rope held by teacher Denise Holliday as part of a fitness program at Spencer Elementary School. Each school in the county is taking part in a healthy schools program designed to improve nutrition and fitness.
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Staff Reporter Students at Spencer Elementary School now have extra incentive to become physically fit.
On Monday, Jan. 28, SES began an optional, reward-based fitness program encouraging physical activity during recess periods.
Students from kindergarten to second grade have the opportunity to jump rope for prizes, while students in third and fourth grade can walk miles around the school playground. Kids in both age groups will earn a handmade necklace and compatible charm figurines for each milestone they reach, such as 40 consecutive jumps or a total of 10 miles.
Physical education teacher Tina Riley is supervising the program, and two teachers from each grade level will instruct students and keep track of rewards during recess.
“Instead of sitting and doing nothing at recess, the kids can work and earn rewards,” Riley said. “There is so much emphasis on obesity right now. We’re just trying to create an opportunity for the kids to get up and move more.”
The program was initiated by the SES Wellness Committee, a group of school staff and parent volunteers dedicated to promoting physical activity and combating childhood obesity. Committee members include SES teachers Riley, Melissa Donat, Ellen Reed, Linda Coffindaffer, principal William Chapman, cafeteria manager Wanda Miller, secretary Angie Boggs and parent Chrissy Kucherawy.
Riley said the school organized the committee last year to coincide with state regulations and the new county wellness policy.
In 2006, the Roane County Board of Education received a $5,000 Wellness Grant from the W.Va. Medical Association, and the SES Wellness Committee applied for funds to support the new program.
“We wanted to promote movement through a special, new activity,” Riley said.
With the help of Boggs, Riley crocheted colorful necklaces with “loop and button” clasps, and the committee purchased charm figures with a fitness theme.
So far, the program has been met with enthusiasm. Second grade teacher Ellen Reed said that her students are taking advantage of the program, and several have already earned their own necklace after 40 consecutive jumps during recess.
“The kids are very excited about it,” Reed said. “They’re even talking about their next chance to jump rope.”
