Pike High School – Challenging Staff to Lead Healthier Lives

5-2-1-0 is an easy-to-understand concept created by Let’s Go! Maine to help parents, children, educators, childcare providers, and others remember four important healthy living recommendations. The idea is to encourage kids and adults to incorporate these simple steps into their lives every day: 5 fruits and vegetables, 2 hours or less of screen time, 1 hour of physical activity, and zero sugar-sweetened beverages.  With the help of a CDC-backed study, Maine proved that consistent exposure to the simple 5-2-1-0 message not only increased awareness of the specific daily recommendations but also improved families’ performance on at least two of the four daily goals. Along with health advocates across the country, Jump IN for Healthy Kids has incorporated the 5-2-1-0 message into our ongoing public awareness efforts and aids in incorporating the message into existing programs such as youth serving organizations and schools.

However, this message is not only beneficial for youth. Healthy employees are a critical component of a thriving school. A healthy workplace leads to employees who are more satisfied with their jobs, are higher performing, are absent fewer days, and are more likely to stay in their positions. Healthy employees provide the continuity and stability that is so essential for educational success.
Understanding the connection between staff and student wellness, Pike High School started off the 2018-2019 school year with a 5-2-1-0 Staff Wellness Challenge. This challenge ran from November 26th to Dec 19th, 2018. Assistant Principal and wellness champion, Mrs. Kurt Benjamin, marketed the challenge by displaying posters around the school with the 5-2-1-0 messages. Daily 5-2-1-0 wellness tips were also sent out to staff members, encouraging and reminding them of healthy habits and best practices. These encompassed a wide range of wellness topics including eating healthy on a budget, exercise tips, getting enough sleep, and many others. Ten Pike High School teachers participated in a 5-2-1-0 Staff Wellness Challenge and the top three challenge competitors were:
Julissa Tavarez- Media Teacher
Deb Calhoun- Science Teacher
Val Dillon- Health and Physical Education teacher
Pike High School will continue to provide its staff with wellness opportunities throughout the next semester. Starting January 28^th, staff will have the opportunity to participate in an eight-week Biggest Loser Challenge. The staff will also have the opportunity to participate in the Fight for Air Climb through the American Lung Association on March 9^th.

To continue with the momentum Pike High School will also be holding professional development wellness informational sessions for staff once a month. Topics will include nutrition education, different weight loss programs, information on fitness apps, self-care techniques, and short everyday exercises.

Jump IN for Healthy Kids is proud to be working with Pike High School thorough the Jump Right UP program sponsored by the Indianapolis Colts. To find 5-2-1-0 information and flyers for your company, school, or family please visit our resource hub.  We’ve included a few tools here and here.