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Randall Jeppesen ReportingUtah schools have until July first to implement improved health programs and meet new federal standards. But, in the Provo School District they're making sure it's not just the students who are getting more physical activity.
Students file off a bus at the Provo School District. They're telling jokes and laughing. According to national studies, by the time they graduate, up to a third of them could be overweight.
"TV and a lot of commuters and all the things that they do doesn't include bicycle riding and walking and playing."
Nutrition Director Jenilee Mccomb is working to create healthier school lunch menus.
"We serve thirty percent fat or less and ten percent less saturated fat. So we've been able to make huge strides."
They're cutting back the non-nutritional foods from vending machines and Assistant Superintendent Ray Morgan says they're also working on ways to get kids to do more physical activities when out at recess. They organize games and try to get kids from just sitting down. And teachers aren't supposed to keep kids out of recess as punishment.
"A step that we're taking and we're not sure exactly where we're going to end up, but the idea is to encourage kids when they're outside to be involved in physical activity."
All Utah schools are working on programs to meet new health standards, but the districts Healthy Lifestyle Chairman Bob Gentry says teachers have to lead the way.
"I think a healthy teacher is a better teacher in the long run. Their minds work better, lets say. They have more energy. They're able to keep up with the students."
The district employees are going through a healthy lifestyle pilot program; they get points for exercising, which makes them eligible for prizes.
"We've brought videos at night after work and did some aerobics together, and so it's been kind of fun."
Kathy Firmage says it's the competition against her co-workers that keeps her going.
"Yeah, I certainly feel better."
District officials also hope healthy teachers will help reduce trips to the doctor's office to fight off increasing health care costs.
