By

April Laskey,   Billerica Mem High Sch

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Topics:

Community Involvement, Physical Activity Participation, Student Leadership, Success with Funds,  Teamwork

On Wednesday, November 18, Billerica Memorial High School’s DECA and School Nutrition programs hosted Jermaine Wiggins, former NFL player and current partner with NFL Fuel Up to Play 60 to speak to the students about healthy living habits. Wiggins informed our students on how eating healthy and exercising is a huge part of growing up and how important it is. Prior to giving his speech, Wiggins introduced the healthy smoothies that the DECA students researched and Billerica Schools Nutrition Services provided. The smoothies consisted of a healthy vegetable smoothie, a berry blast and a protein smoothie as well. All three were loved by the participants and the event was a clear success with the large amount of student participation that attended. 

How did students and adults work together as a team?

Students from the DECA program at BMHS worked with the team from Billerica Schools Nutrition Services to determine the Plays that they would like to research, develop and implement. We scheduled a meeting with the New England Food & Dairy Council for guidance and support.

How did you accomplish your goals?

DECA students set a goal of an event that would be highlighted by a visit from Jermaine Wiggins. Once the goal was set and a Play was chosen, tasks were listed and shared amongst the students. The students met several times each week to work on tasks, share results and continue planning.

What improvements have you seen at your school?

We have successfully implemented an afterschool location for students to stop and purchase healthy snack items after school. Whether going home, off to sports or a club or to work, students need a healthy snack to get through the remainder of their busy day! The cafe has become a place within the high school for students to gather not only in the afternoon but throughout the day.