Fit for Learning
In response to the growing problem of childhood obesity, the Santa Clara County
Office of Education (SCCOE) is preparing to launch a fitness initiative for
elementary students in Santa Clara County. Program kick-off will take place in
October.
THE CHALLENGE
Over the past 20 years, the rate of overweight children has tripled, and today
obesity related illnesses like diabetes are affecting children at a rapidly
increasing rate and at earlier ages. According to a study released by the
California Department of Health Services, physical inactivity, obesity, and
overweight cost the state of California an estimated $12.7 billion a year in
medical care.
The Surgeon General’s "Call to Action to Prevent and Decrease Overweight and
Obesity" identified schools as the key setting for health strategies to
prevent and decrease the prevalence of obesity. According to the Surgeon
General, "Most children spend a large portion of time in school. Schools
provide many opportunities to engage children in healthful eating and physical
activity and to reinforce healthy diet and physical activity messages."
THE PROGRAM
Fit for Learning is a multi-faceted program that will increase physical activity
in elementary students and encourage healthy nutrition. It addresses the school
environment at every level: classroom education, school environment, and
district policy.
THE GOAL
Fit for Learning will:
- Provide a classroom resource guide that will permit teachers to easily
incorporate healthy nutrition and physical education into classroom
learning.
- Establish and support a school site "Champions" program that will
train individuals to promote the development of healthy school environments.
- Engage students in creating healthier campuses.
- Engage Fit for Learning partners to reinforce the healthy environment
through after-school programs with parents.
- Develop and advocate for education policies that will support healthy
nutrition and physical education on the school campus.
An evaluation team will assess school food and physical activity
environments, conduct policy reviews, and measure effectiveness of the resource
guide.
Fit for Learning is a program of the Santa Clara County Office of Education
(SCCOE). For additional information, call the SCCOE’s Communication Services
Department at (408) 453-6514.
Date last updated: June 29, 2005
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