On November 8, 2007, Jeanne Cooper, Hamden Public School's Director of Physical Education, Health and Athletics, and Co-Chair of the Hamden Nutrition Council, presented the current wellness policy.
Under No Child Left Behind, starting in 2004, every state / school, was mandated to adopt a wellness policy that would keep our children healthy and active. In 2006, Ms. Cooper and representatives from each school (administrators and one teacher or staff member who was directly responsible for the children's health) and a number of health professionals, formed the Hamden Nutrition Council.
After a year of meeting and presenting options to the Board of Education, the current policy was adopted and fully implemented at the beginning of this year.
Nearly all of the parents present were concerned with the moderate tone of the policy's language, especially regarding recess. The policy states that (elementary) students should receive 20 minutes of recess, and teachers are "discouraged from denying students recess as a means of punishment or to make up work, and, in those instances when this is deemed necessary, provisions should be made fro the child to receive 20 minutes of physical activity for that day, if appropriate."
This year is about rolling out the policy, getting people used to change. Obtaining a more stringent policy will take time, much like the process that got smoking off of airlines and out of the workplace and restaurants.
Rather than speak on behalf of all our PTAs, we asked that those present return to their units, discuss it and come back to PTA Council with their school's opinion. At our next meeting we would possibly put forth a resolution to the Nutrition Council asking for stronger wording and enforcement of the recess requirement.
In addition, we have asked administrators and PTA units to choose a representative to join the Nutrition Council. It would only require two to three meetings per year, including a report back to the PTA Council.
Baby steps, but steps toward a better wellness policy none the less.
In the end, we were grateful to Jeanne for helping us to understand the wellness policy, and she was thankful for our candor.
In the meantime, we look to parents and extended families for help. We ask that you model healthy habits: use activities and non-food items as rewards, eat lots of fruits and vegetables, be active and play with your kids, drink lots of water and get a good night's rest. I sound like your mother, right?!
Be well,
Marjorie
1 comment:
The policy doesn't work if it's not being enforced. I have seen several teachers (and occassionally) lunch aides take away recess. I don't think all schools are on the same page regarding the policy either. The first time I heard about this policy was at the PTA council meeting and I am sure I'm not the only one. Perhaps something that is easy to understand should go out to all parents. This may force the policy (regarding recess at least) to be effective town wide more quickly and easily.
Post a Comment