Mr. Fast Promotes Wellness
Walking the Fast Track
May 28, 2008
GES spent the 2007-2008 school year walking! In the interest of encouraging healthy lifestyle and habits, Mr. John Fast, Goessel Elementary Principal offered an optional walking program for students in grades K-5, giving students a chance to earn a charm bracelet. It happened at the noon recess time but did not take the place of recess and was not required. Students participated, but still had time to play. Twice a week, Mr. Fast gathered outside to walk with the students. Weather and schedules occasionally dictated changes. Students in grades K-2 could walk one full lap around the playground area twice a week and receive a mini-walking foot for their charm bracelet. Students in grades 3-5 needed to walk two laps twice a week. When students accumulated 2 mini-feet they received a T-Walker charm for their bracelet. After they earned three T-Walker awards, (six weeks of walking twice a week) they received a medallion for their bracelet. After they earned three medallions, they earned their giant Big Foot walker award! At that point they received a certificate and a Big Foot charm. Although a voluntary program, each semester ended with having over 90% participation, which resulted in having a party and lots of healthy food snacks.
The KSDE mandates that schools have a Wellness Program. This was part of the GES Wellness Program, along with the hope of encouraging students to develop regular exercise routines they will want to carry on in their life and foster an active lifestyle.
