Students at Kimberlin Academy for Excellence received a once in a lifetime opportunity Sept. 10. They had the chance to train with famed former Dallas Cowboys football player Troy Aikman.
Aikman came to Garland ISD to help announce 2013-14 Healthy Zone schools. Developed by the Cooper Institute, in partnership with United Way of Metropolitan Dallas (UWMD) and the Texas Education Agency, the Healthy Zone Schools Recognition Program honors campuses that are changing the health of students, parents and teachers.
“Physically fit students perform well on standardized tests, have better attendance and encounter fewer disciplinary actions,” said Dr. Kenneth Cooper. “Through the Healthy Zone Schools program, we have increased the FITNESSGRAM student physical fitness assessment measurements by 31 percent. These numbers clearly demonstrate that we are making a difference toward reducing a child’s long-term risk of developing high blood pressure, high cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes and heart disease.”
Fifty-one schools will participate in this year’s Healthy Zone Schools program. Over its six-year period, United Way and The Cooper Institute anticipate they will provide assistance to 70 campuses, reaching more than 40,000 students.
Chosen through an application process, participants receive a three-year designation as either a Healthy Zone School or a Healthy Zone School-In Training. Campuses in both categories receive funding and volunteer support to fully implement healthy practices on their campuses, as well as initiate wellness programs that engage the surrounding community.
Garland ISD’s first school to participate, Kimberlin Academy was named a Healthy Zone School-In Training during 2012-13. That campus received a promotion this year, and Daugherty Elementary joined the program, training for its Healthy Zone status.
“Teaching kids the importance of physical activity and proper nutrition may begin at home, but it requires our support,” said Bob Morrison, GISD superintendent. “We see students for several hours every day and can truly make a difference in their lives.”
The Sept. 10 announcement event kicked off this year’s Healthy Zone Schools program. Aikman, along with Morrison, Cooper, UWMD CEO Jennifer Sampson and Garland Mayor Douglas Athas, spoke to participating principals, teachers and coaches at the Gale Fields Recreation Center. They then joined hundreds of Kimberlin students for a fun run/walk.
