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Schools challenged in fitness competition
Governor Edward G. Rendell today challenged Pennsylvania schools to help students make healthy choices through the “Governor’s Fitness Challenge.” Schools will compete for three, $5,000 grants for equipment to promote physical activity—such as gym and playground equipment—or nutrition—like vending machines featuring healthy snacks. “It is vital that we teach kids about the importance of leading a balanced life by eating nutritious food and staying active,” Governor Edward G. Rendell said. “I want schools and students to take part in the challenge so that, ultimately, they will help develop a healthier Pennsylvania.” The Governor opened registration today for all schools. Teachers must visit www.panaonline.org/govchallenge to register by Dec.1. Beginning Jan. 16, students will record their minutes of activity and convert them to miles traveled using a conversion tool provided in challenge materials. Their class will then use their collective miles to chart their way across Pennsylvania, stopping at historic Pennsylvania landmarks along the way. Each week schools will update their mileage online and the top five schools will be shown weekly. The three winning schools will be announced on April 30. “Converting minutes of activity will allow students to receive credit for participation in various forms of activity—not just running, walking or biking,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Gerald L. Zahorchak. “Students can dance, swim, play soccer—any type of activity is encouraged, because our hope is to see as many students as possible get involved.” The walking paths provided for teachers include lessons that are in line with the history, geography and science and technology state academic standards so they can easily be incorporated into a teacher’s lesson plans. Winning schools—schools charting the most miles/average daily membership – will be selected to receive a $5,000 grant to buy equipment that will promote physical activity or nutrition, such as gym/playground equipment or vending machines featuring healthy snacks. In addition to the challenge, the commonwealth, through a newly launched ad campaign, is encouraging kids to think about the impact of the choices they make. For example, a commercial shows a boy thinking about the food and activity choices he will make and how those choices will affect his appearance and overall well being as he grows. The commercial was developed specifically for kids. The ad is currently running on networks such as Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network, and WB Kids and airs at those times when children are most likely to be watching TV. The ad campaign started Sept. 11, and will conclude Jan. 22. The Governor’s Challenge is a joint effort of DCNR and the Pennsylvania departments of Education, Health, Transportation, and Agriculture, and is a tool for Pennsylvania schools to use to teach kids about the commonwealth’s rich resources and history, while encouraging overall wellness and increased activity.
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