At 
a time when many districts responded to academic challenges by reducing recess time, PE, Health, or Family and Consumer Science classes, Kirtland Local Schools did what seemed counterintuitive; they increased their focus on fitness, wellness, and nutrition districtwide. According to the superintendent, Chad Vanarnhem, test scores at all levels, including SAT scores, are at their highest ever.
Kirtland initiated fitness in schools with the establishment of “Just Run” clubs in 2014. Moreover, the current movement and wellness priority connects fitness, learning, and social emotional development.
The emphasis on wellness begins early at Kirtland, with access to a fitness room at the elementary school. The converted classroom is used as part of the MTSS process, with all students visiting the fitness room at least once per week and some students with attention concerns incorporating physical activity at the start of each day. The room is part of a robust elementary initiative that includes student fitness challenges, yoga practice, and an “Action for Happiness” calendar. Additionally, classrooms participate in “Walking Wednesdays,” snow or shine, to connect with the outdoors.
The middle school is planning to open its first fitness room this year. They also provide a 9-week wellness class during advisory where the focus is on overall wellbeing, including such initiatives as “Reducing Your Screen Time” challenges and “Wellness Bingo.” Rec time is offered during lunch, and movement breaks are standard during block classes, too.
The high school continues the tradition by offering a wellness and nutrition class taught by a history teacher, who happens to be a CrossFit champion. Initiatives go beyond fitness, as the high school hosted a gratitude challenge as part of their wellness movement. They also get students involved, having one of the most active Sources of Strength programs in the area. Here, student leaders promote eight key life strengths, including healthy activity, mental and physical health to their peers.
Fitness and wellness have become part of the fabric of Kirtland Schools, and this year nutrition has been added to the district “Focus of the Month.” Activities include but are not limited to reading food labels, and “Try it Tuesdays,” where nutrition staff package bite size healthy foods for sampling and discussion.
Kirtland doesn’t leave out staff either. Teachers compete in student challenges, lead “Wellness Wednesday” walks, and join friendly staff and cross-building competitions. There is also a staff fitness room, and every staff professional development day begins with 30 minutes of a wellness or fitness activity. Kirtland also offers a related book study and in-district flu shots.
“We have always known that fitness and wellness make students more focused and ready to learn,” said Mr. Vanarnhem. “We formalized simple principles and created opportunities (movement breaks, reflection time, breathing, and physical activity) so that everyone has the ability to participate.”