Frederick’s Orchard Grove Elementary School is making strides in fitness

Pay attention to the following:   “As kids ran, fitness scores rocketed and disciplinary problems dwindled. And for whatever reason, test scores rose.” Kids getting exercise and being active has benefits far beyond physical health.

Between the books in 11-year-old Dylan Wilson’s backpack lies the accessory other students at Orchard Grove Elementary School most covet: a plastic necklace with a kaleidoscope of pendants in the shape of shoes.

The school’s “mileage club” started in fall 2009 with the idea of handing out the charms as an incentive for kids to run during recess. But the results have surprised the staff. As kids ran, fitness scores rocketed and disciplinary problems dwindled. And for whatever reason, test scores rose.