Hall Co. school recognized for health awareness efforts

FLOWERY BRANCH - Friendship Elementary School (ES) was named Wednesday as one of the 2013 "Partner Up! for Public Health Heroes," a recognition granted by the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH) and the Partner Up! for Public Health Campaign.

The joint DPH/Partner Up! for Public Health program is aimed at recognizing Georgia organizations and individuals who make important contributions to the health of their communities. Friendship Elementary School, a Wellness School of Choice, was selected for "effectively addressing public health challenges," including providing its students with the education and skills to improve their health and well-being through the school's wellness program, as well as making a local impact on childhood obesity. The other 2013 honorees were the HEALing Community Center, the FitWit Foundation, and Burgess-Peterson Academy, all in Atlanta, and Get Healthy, Live Well in Carrollton.

Dr. Brenda Fitzgerald, the state's Commissioner of Public Health, said "The Department is pleased to join the Partner Up! campaign in recognizing these honorees. We hope the efforts of Friendship Elementary will inspire leaders and organizations across the state to follow their example."

"We sat down with our staff and our stakeholders and asked 'how do we get our kids moving?' What would a day look like, what about a week or a month? How do we incorporate movement into their school days?" said Friendship Principal Berry Walton.

Friendship Elementary has been awarded multiple honors for their wellness program including national recognition from the Alliance of a Healthier Generation's Healthy School Program which is funded and managed by the Bill Clinton Foundation, as well as the American Heart Association's Fit Friendly School Gold Achievement.

"We take a common sense approach. We believe in moderation, and taking baby steps every day towards positive, healthy change," said Walton. "Our efforts are geared to fight childhood obesity and our teachers and staff aim to build strong academic minds and able bodies. We hope to teach eating and wellness habits to our students today that will prove to be positive skills later in life."

Walton explained that all activities and efforts at the school incorporate a health conscious component. The PTO events offer health and wellness tips. The school hosts fun runs and family fitness nights. Newsletters sent home to parents often offer how-to and tips regarding salt and sugar intake.

Community partners include University of North Georgia-Oakwood, Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, HealthMPowers, Georgia S.H.A.P.E Act, AAHPERD, MoveInSchools.org, and United Healthcare Group.

To learn more about the 2013 Partner Up! for Public Health Heroes or for additional information on the Partner Up! for Public Health campaign, visit www.togetherwecandobetter.com/phheroes.html.