They’re been running during recess, after school and on their own. They
are gearing up for a challenge from the Superintendent of Schools – and
they are getting physically fit in the process.
On April 6, teams of 15 fifth graders from each of the 30 elementary
schools in the Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools will be participating
in the “Are You Faster Than a 5th Grader” 2-mile race against Superintendent Cynthia Lane, and other administrative staff.
The race will start at 10 a.m. at Kansas City Kansas Community College
and will end at the Washington High School stadium. Following the
two-mile race will be a relay at the Washington track that will involve
both physical and academic challenges.
The purpose of the event is to promote wellness of the mind, body and spirit.
“Good overall health plays a critical role in learning for all
students,” said Cynthia Lane. “So I worked with my staff to create an
event that would challenge our students to get healthy and get fit. My
understanding is that students have been training and preparing for this
event for several months and I’m thrilled with they way they have
embraced this challenge.”
Roads will be blocked for the race, and water and snack stations will be set up along the route.
Fifth graders who will not be running will gather at the Washington
High School stadium to cheer on the runners as they cross the finish
line. The top 15 fifthgraders will receive medals.
The school with the highest number of students who beat Lane will have their photo taken with Lane for a plaque.
