Emphasis on health is urged

To the editor:
I write to you with a message of health advocacy in our community.
Specifically, I believe Jay County would benefit from a well-established coordinated health program.
As a member of a coordinated school health class at Ball State University, class members are being asked to enhance awareness of the potential impact a coordinated school health program can bring Portland and the communities of Jay County.
I am a school health major working to obtain a license to also teach physical education at the secondary level.  I currently teach in another practicum course at Selma Middle School at the sixth-grade level.  That class is taught by Tammy Brant, who was recognized in 2011 as Indiana’s Teacher of the Year.
Brant has since implemented a coordinated school health program in her hometown called “Selma Moves.”  This program unifies young and old, and is forming bonds with school teachers and community members.  
Participants range from one person who has had double-knee replacement surgery to others so young they are exercising for the first time ever.
Jay County has potential to implement such a program and it starts with the Jay Community School Corporation.
 Not to be outdone by surrounding communities, Jay County has several established and well-respected physical educators who can establish such a program.
Bev Arnold has hosted community swim nights at the high school pool, and this is a big step in the right direction.  Portland is also home to Patriot Fitness gym, as well as an exercise facility at the Jay Community Center.  
Many people utilize these facilities.  
Now I ask a dedicated group of individuals to take this one step further to enhance the lives of people in the county by making exercise meaningful and fun.
Jase Schoenherr
Ball State University[[In-content Ad]]