Clarion-Limestone Elementary activities promote good health

Clarion-Limestone Elementary School students jump to reach a goal of 35,000 jumps in a day during Every Kid Healthy Week. (Submitted photo)

Clarion-Limestone Elementary School was awarded $2,000 in grant funding to participate in a nationwide celebration of Every Kid Healthy Week, April 22-26.

The week promoted and recognized the role health and wellness plays in the development of students.

“Schools play an important part for children, and we have a unique opportunity to help our students establish healthy habits for life,” Principal Kristie Taylor said.

Launched nationally by Action for Healthy Kids, a public-private partnership, in 2013, the annual observance also provides an opportunity for everyone in the country to support sound nutrition, regular physical activity and health-promoting programs in schools.

To kick off the week, the school debuted new fitness game features added to the outside playground space. Volunteers and students worked over spring break to paint the fitness games onto a previously unused sidewalk area.

“The kids had a great time painting and are excited to use the games with their friends,” said Nathaniel Parker, a Clarion-Limestone parent. “This makes a great addition to the playground.”

The school also used grant funding to purchase an indoor sensory and activity path that will be installed during summer.

“Physical activity games provide children the opportunity to become involved in purposeful play, promoting health, fitness and self-esteem,” Taylor said. “We are happy to have new equipment, both indoor and outdoor.”

Throughout the weeklong celebration, students participated in a digital, nature-based scavenger hunt, worked collectively to reach a goal of 35,000 jumps in a day and participated in dance breaks.

“One part … that we are most proud of is our community fitness class offering,” Taylor said. “We invited several different local community fitness instructors and enthusiasts into the school to give the kids the opportunity to sample different fitness programs.”

Community fitness classes were taught by Hillary and Leo LeFay, of Clarion MMA; Lisa Milliron and Casey Shoup, of 10.0 Gymnastics; Breanna Kirkland Liberto, of Clarion Center for the Arts; Debbie Marocco, yoga instructor; Chelsey Shaner, of the Clarion YMCA; and Brandon Bell, strength training and body-sculpting.

Parental volunteers, with registered dietitian Kristine Lewis, conducted healthy food taste tests, and provided nutrition education and healthy recipes.

There also was a class-by-class walking competition using pedometers to track steps and activity.

“It’s been a really great week and the kids have enjoyed so many new experiences” Taylor said.