The Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports has announced a new recognition program for school districts that champion student health.
The “Champions of Fitness” program will recognize up to 11 school districts – one per region – that successfully promote physical activity and good nutrition in schools.
The school districts selected for these recognitions will be announced in conjunction with the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports’ fourth annual Spotlight Awards Ceremony, to be held in September 2009, and will each receive a special flag in honor of their achievements.
School districts wishing to be considered for the 2009 Champion for Fitness recognition can submit a nomination prior to June 30, 2009 by visiting www.calgovcouncil.org.
The new school district recognition program joins similar programs designed to promote fitness and nutrition among the state’s youth. The Governor’s Challenge is a contest among K-12 schools to motivate students, parents and teachers to get active, healthy and fit. It calls on participants to be active at least 30-60 minutes a day, at least three days a week, for a month.
Three schools – one elementary, middle and high – will be named grand prize winners and will receive a $100,000 fitness center. Eleven regional award winners will receive $5,000 each, and 33 front runner recognitions will be awarded in the amount of $1,000 each.
In 2006, the Governor’s Challenge drew 10,000 participants; this year, more than 170,000 have already signed up. Signups will be taken through April of 2009 with the competition lasting through May; visit www.calgovcouncil.org for signup information.
In addition, the Governor’s Council Spotlight Awards honors teachers, principals, schools, organizations, park programs, events and companies that are dedicated to improving physical fitness and nutrition among children. They employ innovation, inspiration and initiative to positively impact physical activity, fitness levels and the well-being of California children and youth.
Last year, more than 600 nominations for the Spotlight Awards were received, and the council hopes to break that record this year. New nomination forms will be posted by the end of January and will be accepted through June. Visit www.calgovcouncil.org for more information.