CATCHing A Healthy Break

Grant Elementary students kick off health, wellness program
GRANT – Students from Grant Elementary School’s 2nd through 4th-grade classes participated in a kick-off event for the nationally recognized CATCH program (Coordinated Approach to Child Health) on September 15, led by Principal Carol Dawson.
During the 20-minute assembly, students participated in Zumba and practiced a few of their many fitness deck card activities, which were purchased for all classroom teachers to help support them in incorporating physical activity breaks during class time. Grant Primary Center students experienced their CATCH kickoff during gym class while playing CATCH MVP (“Move and stay active,” “Value healthy eating” and “Practice healthy habits”) games that introduced common language used to teach health and wellness. The students refueled with a healthy apple snack provided by Nelson’s Farm Market.
The CATCH program is having a large impact on Grant Elementary School and Primary Center. After the initial kick-off week, students are already seeking out low-fat white milk in the lunchroom as opposed to chocolate. They enjoy the challenge of discovering which foods fit in the “GO” (or “eat anytime”) category and which ones fit in the “WHOA” (or “eat once in awhile”) category. Students are bringing in healthy fruits and vegetables as their snacks.
Staff is also well on their way to walking the talk, quite literally. Staff and students will be participating in a Walk across America Challenge throughout the school year. Students in  grades K-4 will be receiving educational lessons to reinforce healthy nutrition and increased physical activity and they will be exposed to healthy food through taste testings. Grant Elementary and Primary Center are working to create a healthier environment for staff and students alike.