Testing the connection between healthy kids and academic success

PORTLAND, Ore. - Jan. 7, 2014 - PRLog -- The Centennial School District’s Sun Program in Portland, Oregon has teamed up with Family Fitness Fundamentals for the first time ever in a project that will link students to health and fitness integration. The six month program will begin at Lynch Meadows Elementary School (18009 SE Brooklyn, Portland, Or. 97236) on January 13, 2014.
“This is something that is so new, and we are excited to see the results in linking children’s academic success to their level of physical fitness and emotional well being.” said Sandra Boggs, Founder of Family Fitness Fundamentals. Throughout this program, under the guidance and leadership of Ms. Boggs, students will track their health status, fitness and academic goals and successes, personal behavior, and overall attendance. The ultimate results will document individual improvement in these areas over the study period which will include health and fitness education, building strategies and setting goals, enhancing relationships, and promoting emotional well being. Ms. Boggs emphasizes that regional and national studies have shown that children that scored higher on fitness tests and were height and weight proportionate not only scored higher on standardized tests and grades, but also had higher attendance and less behavior issues. Cardio segments will feature Zumba, martial arts and fitness games, with a pow wow segment for the last 10 minutes of class focused on important factors such as nutrition, making good choices, and goal setting.
According to school officials, The Centennial School District has a large number of children that are at risk and as a result it is taking the steps to forge ahead and support the future success of these students. The Sun Program, an after school program that focuses on and included sports, academics, and tutoring for these at risk students, is dedicated to addressing these at risk students in ways that are interactive and inclusive. Mario Olivares, the manager of the Centennial Sun Program, observed that, "The kids are ready and excited to try this new program."
To learn more about Family Fitness Fundamentals and this style of fitness integration, visit our website at www.famfitfun.com