Port Salerno Elementary School
is awarded $10,000 forhealthy kids program

The Education Foundation of Martin County has secured a $10,000 Champions of Healthy Kids Grant from the General Mills Foundation in recognition of Port Salerno Elementary School's efforts to promote positive physical activity and healthy food choices among its students by creating and implementing the "30-Minute Club" as part of their daily routine. In response to a growing trend of obesity, lack of physical activity among our youth, and a need for improved nutrition, this program promotes positive change in daily eating and activity patterns by providing students with the opportunity to participate in physical activity clubs during the regular school day at no additional cost to families.

All Port Salerno Elementary School staff members select an activity to promote in a daily "club" format. In total, over 20 different physical activity clubs are offered as choices for student participation. Examples of these activities include dance, yoga, pilates, karate, and Wii Fit. Students have the opportunity to make new club selections every 9-week period. The 30-Minute Club is in addition to the regular physical education class.

In addition to the physical activity clubs, the program stresses healthy food choices, good nutrition, and family involvement. Through the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program funded by United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), each child is provided with a fresh fruit or vegetable snack during each school day. Family nights and nutrition newsletters are also used to strengthen the link between home and school lessons.

The General Mills Foundation, in partnership with the American Dietetic Association Foundation and the President's Council on Physical Fitness, developed the Champions for Healthy Kids grant program in 2002. Each year since inception, the General Mills Foundation awards 50 grants of $10,000 each to community-based groups that develop creative ways to help youth adopt a balanced diet and physically active lifestyle.

"Being the only organization or school in the State of Florida to receive this recognition is testament to the dedication and creativity of PSE principal Dr.Tracey Miller and her staff. They are truly champions of promoting healthy lifestyle choices by educating our youth about the importance of daily physical activity and good nutrition. The best part is that the kids are having so much fun that they don't even realize all the learning and relationship building that's taking place," says Lisa Rhodes, Executive Director of the Education Foundation of Martin County. Unanticipated outcomes of the "30-Minute Club" include a rise in student attendance and a decline in student discipline referrals.

If you would like additional information or are interested in investing in an educational enrichment program within one of Martin County's public schools, please contact Lisa Rhodes at LRhodes@EducationFoundationMC.org or 772-219-1200 ext. 30417. For additional information on the Education Foundation, please visit www.EducationFoundationMC.org.