Black’s Mill Elementary in Dawson County began Power Up for 30 (PU30) in November 2014. School leaders implemented the program in hope of increasing students’ physical activity levels and introducing them to a healthier lifestyle.
Through movement during morning lessons before school as well as during Brain Break sessions in the classroom, students and teachers are able to easily experience an additional 30 minutes of physical activity every day.
PU30 has impacted Black’s Mill by keeping students more engaged during class. With the extra time to get up and move, students are more attentive and less restless.
The teachers are enjoying seeing the excitement students have for class lessons, which makes them great supporters of PU30.
“I have found that students are asking to dance and are motivated to work their brain through movement,” said Ashley Tobias, Title I teacher.
Kristin Lamb, lead special education teacher, agrees that PU30 has increased student motivation throughout their school day.
“The students enjoy moving and it gives them an opportunity to become more stimulated,” she said.
PU30 has a teacher’s stamp of approval, but what do Black’s Mill Elementary students think about the program?
“It is a lot of fun to be up and moving at school,” said Saul, a second grader.
Jacquelyne, also a second grader, agrees. “I feel awesome after I move; it warms me up to learn,” she said.
To learn more about Black’s Mill Elementary School, visit www.dawsoncountyschools.org.
