Did you know that a 20-ounce bottle of Dr. Pepper soda has 42 teaspoons of sugar? Holley Elementary students learned that interesting fact and many more at the school's first Health Fair. "The fair was a complete success," School Nurse Julie Kirby said. "The students had a great time trying organic products and healthy snacks. Each student took home information on healthy living and healthy alternative snack products." At one station, students compared one percent, two percent and soy milk. The consensus was that the one percent tasted best. At another station, students were able to observe food models that showed what appropriate portion sizes look like. Third-grader Sam Beadle said his favorite part of the fair was learning about how much sugar and fat are in the foods he's eating. He couldn't believe there are 21 grams of fat in a hot dog and 16 grams of fat in a serving of fries. Students also sample pickles, fruit butters and juice sweetened jams. "The fruit, vegetables and crackers were yummy," said second-grader Rebecca Wichtendahl. Students also gathered information about physical fitness from Holley Karate and Westside YMCA. In a fitness challenge, students and their parents did a physical activity for one minute and compared their heart rates. The challenge was part of the Carol M. White Physical Education Program (PEP) grant awarded to Holley this year by the U.S. Department of Education. Nola Goodrich and Shelly Troup from the NYS Health Department gave students lessons in laughter yoga. Twenty National Honor Society students, April Fuller, home school coordinator, Mary Hills, L.P.N./nursing assistant, along with Barb Blosenhauer and Mara Trojanski from Oak Orchard Community Health Center, were also instrumental in making the health fair possible. The health fair is one of several events the Holley School District has held as part of its Health and Wellness Program for students and staff. |
