The Cumberland School District is taking steps to incorporate more health-related curriculum into student studies. Schools are an ideal setting for teaching young people how to adopt and maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. Research has shown that well-designed, well-implemented school programs can effectively promote physical activity and healthy eating.

One effective program is a health fair.  Each year the high school health classes learn about healthy living and then host a health fair for some of the elementary students. In September 2007, Cumberland Middle School students participated in the Fall In to Health Community Wellness Event sponsored by Healthier Cumberland.  More than twenty local health-related agencies provided interactive displays to educate students and community members on various health and safety topics. 

     Another successful program was the spring 2006 “Walk Mr. Richie Home” event.  Elementary students wore pedometers every day for several weeks, logging their steps.  Teachers tallied the steps and tracked student progress in walking Elementary School principal Jim Richie home from his tour of duty in Iraq. The students did so well that they were even able to “walk” a few of Mr. Richie’s friends home, too.

     During the month of March, Cumberland Elementary students observe National Nutrition Month. The Elementary School guidance counselor provides fun and informative curriculum on nutrition and health every week in all classrooms throughout the month.  Other events include a slogan contest, cafeteria decorations, and nutrition bulletin boards created by the students. 

What can parents do?

1. Reinforce the instruction your children receive in school.  Review any handouts they bring home and try to implement at least one new idea.
2. Set an example by continuing to learn about health.
3. Set an example by taking steps to better health.

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