Welcome to Coordinated School health programs

High energy and activity are the key buzzwords in the Calais School System. Superintendent James Underwood and administrators talk about the change in culture in terms of activity and nutrition and there is considerable evidence of that in all of the classrooms.

After professional development was provided, the physical activity policy asked that K- 6 teachers incorporate at least 10 minutes of daily physical activity into their classrooms. Middle school students have 40 minutes of physical activity every other day. Students from kindergarten through 8th grade participate in a wide variety of physical activities and it is clear that their teachers are fully involved and understand the connection between physical activity and academic success.

Calais has a comprehensive physical education curriculum that includes student assessment of achievement. The physical education teachers utilize available resources and focus on exposing students to lifetime physical activities. The high school incorporates character education into the physical education classes.

In Calais, the importance of the family is recognized and encouraged. Snow shoes and kayaks are available for use by all members of the community on the weekends and during the summer. The school conducts family fitness nights and television turn-off week and newsletters are sent home. Recently, elementary students were videotaped being physically active and the program was shown on the local television channel.

There is 70% participation in after-school physical activity and nutrition activities in grades 3-8. Local grants from the community fund this program entirely.

Many wellness activities are offered to the staff, including swing dancing, yoga, and a walking club. The staff and all students may use the local fitness center for free.

Congratulations to Calais School Department for receiving the 2006 Exemplary Award in Physical Education and Physical Activity.

Jen is a strong leader in her school and well-respected by her peers. So when she jumped at the opportunity to take part in a daily physical activity Take Time pilot program, the staff followed suit. She is a strong advocate for daily physical activity in the class and is quick to tell anyone about the benefits of exercise in the classroom. She suppliers resources for the staff and is constantly looking for new ways to keep students in her school active. Jen is a role model for others. She participates in a variety of sports and encourages others to do the same. For these reasons, we present Jennifer Donovan with the outstanding leadership award.

Heather is the true spark in the School Health Program. She is very intelligent, well organized and energetic. She truly believes in and is committed to Total Health, Wellness, Prevention, and Education. Because of her knowledge and skills, she is able to communicate this to school administration, the school board, school staff, students, parents, and the community at large. Her grant writing skills have allowed Calais to implement new state and national programs. Her positive attitude and healthy risk taking have inspired many to try new and innovative programs and activities. In recognition of all Heather’s contributions to Coordinated School Health, we recognize her with this outstanding leadership award.

Steve is an exceptional role model for both his peers and his students. His physical education classes are fun and students can be seen with him as they climb local mountains, ski local slopes, and bike local trails. His focus is on lifelong fitness and he encourages non-competitive programs in his school. He is a strong advocate for increased physical activity and is currently working with the Union 106 Visions Committee and Curriculum Committees to have physical education extended from two days a week to three. Steve is a positive role model for students and staff. It is my honor to recognize Steve McGinley with this outstanding leadership award.

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© 2000 Coordinated School Health Programs