By

Antoinette Willis,   Montgomery El

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Topics:

Physical Activity Participation,  Student Leadership

Students are learning and understanding what it takes to lead healthier, happier, and stronger lives. Every day in PE, students run at least a 1/2 mile. Some students even came before school and ran during recess to get a few extra miles in. We sing chants and make running exciting! We started the 100 Mile Club fairly late in the school year, so although the ultimate goal was to run 100 miles, I allocated 60 miles to be our realistic benchmark for success. Once a student completed the first 20 miles, they received a bronze paper medal. After 40 miles, they received a silver paper medal. After 60, they will receive a gold paper medal. They really do push to earn these medals and I have seen great enthusiasm and dedication to the program. They make me proud!

How did you accomplish your goals?

Everyone ran at least a 1/2 mile every PE class and majority of students also ran during recess and some came to run before school.

What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?

We had to come up with a cost-efficient incentive for the students' continued dedication. Being that our students come from very low income families, printable awards were perfect.

What improvements have you seen at your school?

Students have actually learned to love running instead of looking at running as being a punishment. Those that come to run before school says that it makes them feel better and more alert during the school day.