SHIP Helps Area Schools Find Their "SPARK"

Fairmont Area Schools hosted the SPARK Middle School and High School Trainings on June 6^th and 7^th 2012. Dr. Kristy Hilton lead both fun and active filled training days! Schools that participated in the trainings included, Fairmont Area Schools, Blue Earth Area, Martin County West, Jackson County Central, St. James, St. Paul Lutheran, Windom Area Schools, Southwest Star Concept and St. Casimirs. The training provided the schools with activities and assessments to make their physical education classes a more active and fun environment. These schools were provided with a Middle School workshop and a High School workshop. Each day consisted of new and exciting activities that were specific to each age group. During the trainings the schools were able to come together and discuss how they were currently running their programs and how SPARK will fit into their own programs. SPARK’s mission is to improve the health of children and adolescents by disseminating evidence-based physical activity and nutrition programs that provide curriculum, staff development, follow-up support, and equipment to teachers of Pre-K through 12th grade students. SPARK also focuses on making activities fun so they don’t give off a competitive feel. This helps students all join in on the activities and not feel excluded if they are not the best athlete in the class. SHIP believes SPARK will be a great asset to our grantees and looks forward to seeing how each school will implement SPARK into their curriculums for the 2012-2013 school year.