quote:

Originally posted by Yahoo News Oklahoma Students Lobby for P.E. Bill By TIM TALLEY, Associated Press Writer OKLAHOMA CITY - Fifth-graders appeared before a state House committee Monday to lobby for passage of legislation that would create a voluntary statewide physical fitness program. Physical education classes are not required in Oklahoma schools. The Oklahoma Kids Fitness Challenge Act is patterned after a program developed at Bridge Creek Elementary School that encourages fifth-graders to pursue a healthy lifestyle and at the same time teaches them about Oklahoma. Students would take a virtual tour of the state by walking at least 25 miles a week, an average of 5 miles each school day, and relating their mileage to traveling between various points on a map, learning about the geography and history of the areas they pass along the way. Instead of walking, students can do 25 sit-ups in two minutes three times a week. "The benefits could be healthier bodies, healthier minds, reduced health costs. And exercise can reduce the chance of getting Alzheimer's," 11-year-old Cody Smith said. As he spoke, a line of his classmates held a banner that read "Oklahoma Kids Fitness Challenge." "Everyone can do it if they put their mind to it," he said. Ten-year-old Stefani Mize said the program was developed after students and teachers realized that obesity was becoming a problem at Bridge Creek. "We saw that the obesity rate index for fifth graders at our school was an outrageous 32 percent," Stefani said, eliciting chuckles and admiration from some members of the House Common Education Committee. "Can I use this young lady to present my bill?" said Rep. Gus Blackwell, R-Goodwell. Stefani said not having a physical education program at the school last year may have contributed to the obesity rate. The statewide obesity rate is 24.4 percent. "The problem is that some schools don't have enough money to hire a PE teacher," Stefani said. The bill's author, Rep. Susan Winchester, said the measure requires the Department of Education (news - web sites) to create an optional "Walk Across Oklahoma" program, with funding for pedometers and access to curriculum for teachers in school districts that participate. "It's really voluntary. But it will be a resource," Winchester said. State Superintendent of Schools Sandy Garrett said the proposal "is well-intentioned" but needs more work. "I think a plan that targets one grade level isn't a good plan," Garrett said. She also said officials need to find time in the school day for students to walk 5 miles, which takes about one hour and 15 minutes. The measure has the support of the Oklahoma Department of Parks and Recreation as well as Integris Medical Center and other private companies. Winchester said the measure will have no impact on state finances. The bill, House Bill 1647, passed unanimously and was sent to the full House for action.

Personally, I was unaware of the matter (what I placed in bold). No wonder America is full of fat children. Personally, I think this should become a Nation-wide thing.