Photo Gallery A Bright Elementary student prepares for the trunk-lift portion of the Fitnessgram

Frisco Independent School District is doing its best to produce bright minds but also students who are physically fit.

Senate Bill 530 requires that the Fitnessgram physical fitness assessment, which was developed by the renowned Cooper Institute for Aerobic Research, be administered to students grades three through 12.

Dr. Charlotte Mooneyham, Ed. D. coordinates the program for the district and says some frequently asked questions about Fitnessgram include the following:

• Can a student fail the fitnessgram? The answer is no because it is a tool to determine fitness and help a student develop a personal fitness plan.

• Will a student’s score be compared to others? The answer is no because it is not based on peer comparisons. But the results for the district are compiled and turned into the Texas Education Agency for consideration of programs to reduce childhood obesity and improve student health. Reports concerning the fitnessgram results will be sent home with students.

• What are fitnessgram tests? There are six fitnessgram items including the mile run, the Pacer (20 meter shuttle runs) or the walk test; push-ups; curl-ups; back saver sit or shoulder stretch; trunk lift; and body mass index.

Mooneyham offers these recommendations to prepare for the fitnessgram. She says student’s daily routine should include active play or movement for at least 60 minutes five days a week; strength training (push-ups or sit-ups) two to three days a week; eating a low-fat, low-sugar healthy diet. She also encourages students to talk to their physical education teachers and coaches about healthy lifestyle choices.

Frisco ISD already had a rigorous physical education program in place but has made alterations to scheduling at all campuses to meet the state requirements for moderate to vigorous activity, particularly at middle school and at the high school level.

FISD’s high school campuses are handling testing in different ways. Some band, cheer teachers, etc are trained and administer the test. On other campuses, PE teachers pull from those electives and pull or work with off-campus students when they are on campus. Letters are sent giving a time frame for testing. Most campuses also post dates on marquees and in hallways, Mooneyham said. All students are encouraged to do their best on the test and to develop healthy lifestyle habits.

Frisco Independent School District, along with other districts in the state, is attempting to coordinate efforts by all campuses with physical education and the child nutrition program to educate children to adopt healthy habits that will last a lifetime.