Health and Fitness

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This cornerstone began in the Fall of 2014. The student leadership team of seven students had some great successes. They held two tournaments at our school and these proved to be a valuable component in their cornerstone. Last year we had a "Gaga Ball Pit" installed by student leadership. This sport was very popular early in the year. We posted the rules in each classroom and on the wooden pit as well. We soon found that many students enjoyed the game at recess, but they were also not following the rules. Soon we made a schedule of leadership students to be at the Gaga Ball court, and lead the games. This was very successful and many students and adults appreciated the game in a controlled manner. This excitement led to the first Gaga Ball Tournament at our school. We had sign-ups and held the tournament for a week. We had grade levels play against each other and the winners all played against each other on the last day. It became a great way to gather school spirit and excitement. Our winner was a 5th grader, Dante Rendon, he will have his name placed on a plaque and we will add winners each year the tournament is held.

This team also held a Kendama Tournament this year. The love of this Kendama game became popular at our school. Many students in the upper grades were challenging each other to "Ken". This is a wooden tool, with a string attached to a ball. You can do many tricks with the Kendama, which originated in China. They are sold at our local toy and sports stores. With the success of the Gaga Ball Tournament, the team had the concept of holding a similar tournament, except with Kendamas. They advertised the tournament, and many signed up to be involved. We had  three winners, and each got to choose a new Kendama as a prize. It was very successful, and soon all students had Kendamas!

They had two final goals which will continue to next year. One was to get field paint to divide the field to accomadate all the activities we offer at recess. We have volleyball, kickball, softball, football, soccer, and field hockey to play. Many students want to play the various sports but, often are unable to play due to one field and sports crossing over boundary lines. They will block out the field next year, and try this method for a few weeks.

They also researched the idea of a fitness circut to place around the perimeter of our field. They came up with 6 stations and after pricing the cost, got a bit discouraged. We will continue this next year with the help of our PTA and the possibility of parents to donate or help build the stations.

Finally, we want to bring Pickle Ball to our school. We have room on our blacktop for a court and after researching this game, thought it would be fun to add to our activities at PE or recess. This group worked very hard, and we look forward to more sports and tournaments!