Physical Activity and Student Learning

Today I visited North Valley High School in the Three Rivers School District outside of Grants Pass, OR. I was there to talk with principal Linda Hugle about her school and the success they've had during the past few years improving student learning. Linda described several recent initiatives including implementation of a trimester schedule but was most proud of the opportunity provided for students to have some physical activity during the school day. In addition to longer passing time between classes Linda arranged to have exercise equipment installed on the school lawn outside the front door. Students are able to use the equipment between classes, during lunch and before and after school. The combination of physical activity, fresh air, and an opportunity to relax a bit during the school day is valued because of the positive connection to student learning.

Linda and her staff are congratulated for taking the initiative and doing something that would be unheard of in many comprehensive high schools. It is a great example of focusing on students' needs and finding a way to meet them while maintaining an excellent academic experience.

Caring for Students and their Families

The current economy has impacted students and families in significant ways. A recent report from the National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth reported that in over half the states there has been a 50% increase in homeless students since 2007. The nation's official poverty rate was 13.2% and for children younger than 18, 19%. The US Department of Agriculture found (Nov 2009) that food shortages, even outright hunger characterize the current economy. The number of Americans running out of food each month rose to 16% of the population.

Schools are responding in respectful and caring ways to this crisis. I recently learned about a program at Mitchell Elementary School in Ann Arbor, MI. About 60% of Mitchell's students qualify for free or reduced price means. The staff works with Chartwells, the district's food service provider, and with Food Gatherers, a local non-profit organization to gather food and pack backpacks that students take home on Friday. Principal Kathy Scarnecchia says that keeping students "fed and healthy" helps them to be more successful in school. Students return the empty backpacks on Monday.

What a wonderful way to support students, their families, and commit to the success of every student.

Current Economy's Impact on Schools

Almost every day the media reports on the impact of the recession on families. I recently wrote about the impact in a Research Brief I prepared for The Principals' Partnership (www.principalspartnership.com) and was reminded about the need for principals and teachers to take the impact into consideration when working with students and their families.

Did you know that . . .
• The poverty rate for children younger than 18 was 19%?
• Rural families have higher poverty rates than urban families?
• The use of food stamps has grown 32% since 2007?
• Sixteen percent of American families run out of food each month?
• Nearly 20% of the US population lost health care insurance since January 2008?
• Teenagers have the highest unemployment rate (27%)?
• One in five children (14 million) receive food from soup kitchens, food pantries or other agencies?
• One in eight Americans received emergency food help last year?

At Hadley Junior High in Glen Ellyn, IL they began Stephanie's Breakfast Club named for a teacher at the school. It's a chance for students to meet, talk with teachers, have a nutritious breakfast and prepare for the school day. Teachers volunteer their time and the food is donated. What a wonderful example of responding to the needs of their students.

How does your school respond to students and families in need? What programs or practices do you have to care for your students?