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ROCKLAND SCHOOLS PARTICIPATED IN ‘MARCH FORWARD’ TO PROMOTE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN THE CLASSROOM
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
Contact: Beth Cefalu, |
ROCKLAND SCHOOLS PARTICIPATED IN ‘MARCH FORWARD’
TO PROMOTE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN THE CLASSROOM
NEW CITY, NY, -Teachers and students in schools across the County participated in the 12th Annual March Forward from February 29 – March 15, 2024, during Rockland’s annual school-based physical activity awareness weeks. Created and overseen by the Rockland County School Health and Wellness Coalition, March Forward raises awareness among educators and students of the importance of physical activity for learning readiness and personal well-being.
March Forward promotes the benefits of being physically active throughout the school day, which include reduced stress, increased memory, readiness to learn, and a bit of fun. Studies show that students feel more connected to their teachers and peers when physically active in school. This helps prevent feelings of depression and loneliness. During the two weeks of March Forward, teachers were encouraged to lead students in short physical activity breaks or play a short exercise video for students to follow. Teachers could also use physical activity to teach lessons to strengthen students’ understanding of math and language arts.
This year, school districts worked with their communications specialists to post photos and videos using the hashtag #MarchForwardRC. By using social media, educators could share their ideas and encourage others to use this simple but important strategy. “Physical activity throughout the school day has been shown to improve student and staff well-being and academic outcomes,” said Carrie Steindorff, Rockland County Department of Health School Health Coordinator.
Dawn Whelan, a second-grade teacher at Thiells Elementary School, regularly uses physical activity with her students. “I love using physical activity with my students for a number of reasons. Connecting a hand or body motion with a concept helps build the bridge in the student's brain that helps them memorize that material. After even a short physical activity, the kids are more alert, more engaged, and ready to learn!”
Teachers can use physical activity in the classroom year-round. On the March Forward webpage, they can find resources, articles, and videos on physical activity in the classroom. For more information, contact Carrie Steindorff at 845-364-2360 or steindoc@co.rockland.ny.us.
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