With school administrators always looking for ways to help students stay more healthy, this idea pushes a healthy narrative that the kids seem to get a great deal of enjoyment from so far.

The walking and jogging club will be a morning activity offered to any students that wish to participate before school begins. School Superintendent Steven Penhollow stated that the buses typically arrive at the school between 7:20 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. Due to the typically early arrival times, students can get off the bus, go put necessary items in a locker, and head to the gym to enjoy the club. Penhollow noted that there are separate lanes for walking and running, to allow students to exert a desired amount of energy without jeopardizing anyone’s safety. Not only does this give students a chance to get their blood moving in the morning, but also to socialize and listen to some music before beginning the academic day.

“They get some exercise. They get their blood flowing. They get a chance to talk,” said Penhollow. “There’s some music being played, and it’s just an opportunity for kids to be kids.”

The walking and jogging club began initially on Tuesday Dec. 2 and showed a positive student reception nearly immediately. On the first Tuesday of the club’s existence, Penhollow stated that about 57 kids participated in the morning. By just the next day on Wednesday, the total number had risen to over 81 kids, said Penhollow.

Students participating in the walking/jogging club gather around for a group picture.

Inspiration for this event came about from similar ideas being implemented at other districts, according to Penhollow. Penhollow mentioned that the school’s administrative intern Jordan Goold had been wanting to plan some sort of project for the school. At the same time, the school’s wellness committee was looking for some sort of plan to promote activity to students. These plans ultimately came together when a recommendation was given by Middle School Principal Brett Muscarella. Muscarella recalled his time at Clymer Central School, and stated the school had a walking club. This would become the inspiration for this club’s creation.

“It’s been very well accepted,” said Penhollow. “I think that the awesome thing about Falconer is we’re looking at all aspects of our kids. Not only the academic success, but the physical health and wellbeing.”

Penhollow also gave thanks to the six individuals that volunteer time to make this club possible by coming each day to assist, and oversee, the children walking.