By Kim Hilsenbeck

A pilot program called “GetFIT with SFE” at Tobias Elementary School has children increasing their daily physical activity. Conceptualized by Southwest Foodservice Excellence (SFE), Hays CISD’s child nutrition contractor, the goal is to incorporate physical activity into the breakfast and lunch program in local schools throughout the year. This was done with minimal interference with the normal school day.

SFE teamed up with former Olympic medal winner Jackie Joyner Kersee to incorporate seven “heptathlon” physical activities into its lunch service. Research shows that increased strength, flexibility and endurance increase students’ body and mind performance. 

Furthermore, a burst of physical activity throughout the day counts towards the 60 minutes of physical activity recommendations.

In addition to teaching students about physical exercise, DJ Cheetah highlighted seven fresh, nutritious fruits and vegetables on a rotating cycle, one each week for the seven-week pilot program.

Depending on feedback from teachers and school administrators, SFE and DJ Cheetah may return next year to Tobias and possibly other campuses to help motivate students about staying active.