Elementary School Makes More Time for Recess And Physical Activity

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We all know that healthy students learn better, but what can schools do to help?

Rangerville Elementary School in San Benito Consolidated Independent School District in San Benito, TX (90.7% Latino), decreased the amount of time kids spend sitting at their desks and increased the amount of time kids spend being physically active by providing more time for recess, more activities during PE, physical activity breaks during class, and a running club.

Additionally, school vending machines only provide water, school foods align with the USDA’s Smart Snacks in School standards, and the school introduces students to two new fresh fruits and vegetables every week.

The healthy changes at Rangerville Elementary School were recognized when the school was one of only 14 schools nationwide to receive the 2016 National Healthy Schools Gold Award from the Alliance for a Healthier Generation in August.

Schools play a critical role in kid’s physical activity and nutrition, thus school environments and policies must build a culture of physical activity and health, especially in Latino neighborhoods where kid’s often lack access to healthy food and safe places to play.

Swimming may be the most promising activity to get Latino and all kids more active.