By

Gloria Eddy,   Santa Cruz Valley Union High School

Play:

Topics:

Access to Healthy Foods, Physical Activity Participation, Success with Funds,  Teamwork

On April 14th, we had several 8th graders from surrounding schools visit our campus. We called this the Freshmen Experience. This was to give them an insight into promoting into high school. They had a day of interacting with various high school students. Included in the activities were visiting the smoothie booth at lunchtime, where the culinary department prepared fresh fruit smoothies for the entire campus. They were involved in the physical activities at lunchtime with relay races, playing ball and other physical activities. It was a great experience for both the 8th graders and our staff and students.

What improvements have you seen at your school?

I have seen an increase in breakfast participation in the students eating breakfast from inside the cafeteria and grab and go cart. During lunchtime we have three salad bars available, and they were excited with all the fresh fruit and vegetables that are offered. They enjoy the three different varieties of milk that are offered, plus the yogurt parfaits and fruit smoothies that are being offered for breakfast.

How did you accomplish your goals?

Goals were accomplished by working with the students and encouraging and educating them about healthier and better choices.

How do you plan to make this Play last during the school year and beyond?

The plan is to continue with what we have found to be successful and to constantly re-evaluate and modify what may not be as effective. We want to continue trying to recruit leaders, and receive more community support and constantly find ways to improve our program.