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Elementary students returning to school in September will get to maintain some of the heightened physical activity they enjoy over the summer.
Prince William County Public Schools are combating the epidemic of childhood obesity with a major increase in physical education class time in elementary schools.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the prevalence of overweight children among 6-11 years has more than doubled in the past 20 years, and current estimates indicate that rates have not yet begun to decrease.
PWCS is taking the initiative to increase physical education and activity based on national recommendations. A new wellness plan is going into effect for the 2006-07 school year that will increase fitness and motivate students to develop healthy habits such as choosing n
utritious meal options.
Most elementary students have received 30-45 minutes of P.E. class time each school week, but this new schedule will provide a full 90 minutes of physical fitness education (broken into two 45-minute sessions) a minimum of every six days. To meet this increase in time, many schools will support their P.E. classes by adding a teacher’s aide to assist the primary physical education teacher with instruction.
The changes will not only carry the obvious benefits inherent with increased physical fitness, but will also have a direct impact on students’ ability to relax and focus in the classroom. Overall, most students should notice increased academic performance, improved behavior in school, a positive effect on peer relations, and increased self esteem.
To learn more about the benefits of extended physical education, watch this video from Fred Milbert, physical education and health supervisor for Prince William County Public Schools.
6/15/06
