Game On!

Description

I implemented a health and wellness program, GAME ON!, so every student might recognize the link between nutrition and physical activity and their ability to succeed in school. Also, to contribute to a positive systemic change at Sparr Elementary.

Impact

The nutritional and physical challenges implemented at Sparr Elementary through the Game ON! program impacted the students and school in positive ways. The program included all 383 students from pre-k through fifth grade. The students met moving more and eating healthy challenges before, during, and after school taking their new found knowledge of health and wellness to their families and into the community. Their behaviors and attitudes quickly changed as their knowledge regarding health and wellness changed. Administrators and teachers quickly saw a correlation between moving more and eating healthy to academic success. Sparrs school grade increased from a "C" to a "B" going from 467 points to 510 points. The students reached high levels in reading from 67% in 2007-2008 school year to 80% in 2008-2009 school year. Writing scores went from 50% in 2007-2008 to 65% in 2008-2009. Math scores went from 66% in 2007-2008 to 73% in 2008-2009 (Sparr missed the math target by 1 percent). GAME ON! provided many stories. A great anecdotal story came along shortly after a vegetable taste test was held with all fourth grade students. It was the beginning of December and the students had the opportunity to learn about and taste red bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and yellow squash-with and without ranch dip. About a week after the taste test the teacher came into my office full of smiles. She had just allowed the students to select what they wanted to serve at their Christmas part. They unanimously chose the vegetables from the taste test rather than, cookies, candy, chips, etc. The principal of the school commented, "Under the direction of Dr. West, Games On! is one program that brought the entire school's administration, faculty, staff, students, and community together for a common cause. ...culminating in a positive impact on our school." Teachers comments included, "A social motivator because everyone was involved."; "Super and well run program--hope we do it again next year." The coach stated,"Can we put it together again for next year? Thanks for such a wonderful idea to implement this program." Most students agreed, "GAME ON is awesome! Just do it!" Game On! assisted in identifying barriers that adversely stratified students' opportunitites to be successful learners and enhance school success.