During the first six weeks of school, students will begin a training program for the mile run in October. I will gradually increase the amount that students will cover. I always give a section of the track to be the walking area, and students are encouraged to jog or run the rest of the course. For some students, this requirement will be a struggle, and as parents we need to support them as much as possible.

The state of Tennessee ranks third in the nation for childhood obesity, which means thirty pounds over the desired weight for body structure. Over 70% of the 2005-2006 Fifth grade class will be at risk of becoming overweight or obese in the future. Parents and students need to engage themselves in trying to improve lifetime wellness. This also includes Mrs. McChesney in the effort of improving my daily activity rate.

We will focus on four main goals for our challenge to be healthier. Families need to increase their intake of fresh vegetables and fruit. Please limit drinks with sugar which include soda pop, ice tea, sports drinks, lemonade or Kool-ade. Increase the intake of water and low fat milk. Increase daily physical activity to 60 minutes of movement. This is accumulative minutes of exercise. And, we need to decrease screen time with television, video games, computer, and ipod usage.

The school track is available after school hours for families to come walk. 6 1/2 laps equals to one mile. Adults need to average 5 miles a day in steps. 2,000 steps equals to one mile. All of us need to engage more of our time to taking care of physical needs. Your children need extra activity, and parents can be the best role models for them.