ELEMENTS for FITNESS

Focused On Fitness’ goal is reduce obesity and increase cardiovascular endurance, strength and flexibility among MISD students so they meet state standards. The project has eight elements:

1. Implement Fitness TriFit Fitness Assessment. Individualized Planning & Monitoring System so students learn to monitor their fitness levels and develop individualized fitness plans. Element 1

2. Upgrade exercise equipment and instruction in our elementary, intermediate/middle and high school, respectively, over project years 1-3. Element 2

3. Provide ongoing professional development on using the TriFit system/equipment, developing individualized fitness plans, implementing research based instructional strategies and PE Manager for student assessment. Element 3

4. Involve our students in community recreation activities at the YMCA, rec centers bowling alleys ect. Element 4

5. Collaborate with community agencies in the design and delivery of health/PE services. Element 5

6. Referral to community agencies for students with significant weight/health problems. Element 6 What I liked about Trim Kids

7. Health/PE integration so students understand the connection between proper diet, exercise and health. Element 7

8. Program evaluation, revision and institutionalization as a result of expected improvements in student fitness levels. Element 8

GRANT

The Marion Independent School District has been awarded $594,097 dollars from the Carol M. White PEP Grant for the years 2008-2011. The Carol M. White Physical Education Program is designed to provide funds to local educational agencies to initiate, expand and improve physical education programs. The Marion Independent School PEP Grant, “Focus on Fitness” is designed to reduce obesity and increase cardiovascular endurance, strength, and flexibility. During the next three years the Physical Educators are implementing the TriFit Fitness assessments so students can learn how to develop fitness portfolios and fitness plans. These portfolios will be built by conducting and assessing fitness tests with students from grades K-12. The grant will allow upgrades in fitness equipment and collaboration with community agencies allowing us off campus opportunities such as bowling, visiting fitness centers and hospitals. The PEP grant also allows the referral of students that are at risk with weight or health problems. The physical education staff will visit Grundy Center, IA and Naperville, IL, which have two of the best physical education programs in the nation. Marion Independent School District will also have representatives attend local, regional and national conventions. The Marion Physical Education Staff consists of Steve Fish, Lori Dostal, Kyle Von Behren, Dan Halter, Alan Read, Lindsay Pipho, Joe Fontenot, Tom Hauck, Corey Meth and Jason Hagg.