Education

Sector Success Story

Safe Strides on the Southside

South Middle School (Martinsburg)

The Main Goal
Develop a walking track on campus to promote physical activity

The Purpose
Having the track gives students another option for physical activity during recess. Instead of sitting and talking or sitting by themselves. They are encouraged to walk and socialize with one another.

1/6 length of track put on campus

Fitness Fridays to Get students using the track

1,000 Children and community members impacted

Project Outcomes

Environmental Changes

Created physical and observable change to the built and social environment in South Middle School (Martinsburg)

Stronger Communities

Available for ALL students to use during the school day; accessible and encouraged use of all students and staff

The Bottom Line

They shared their own success story of a student who was very shy and would sit along the wall during recess. Once the walking track was put into place, she decided to start walking it. Eventually others joined her and they began to mingle. The walking track is not only promoting physical activity but also more social interactions and development.