WMU schools walk more to connect more

WINFIELD— Governor Kim Reynolds proclaimed October as Healthiest State Month and Winfield Mt. Union Schools participated in the 12th Annual Iowa’s Healthiest State walk last week as the first activity to celebrate.

The whole school participated, from kindergarten students through high school seniors to encompass the school’s theme “Walk More. Connect More.”

According to Winfield Mt. Union Schools, many classrooms and grades chose themes for the walk.

Third grade dressed as ninjas, sophomores dressed in Hawaiian theme, and juniors chose wear gray.

“Who knew ‘groutfits’ were a thing,” WMU Instructional Coach Patricia Jones said of the junior class’s name for their theme.

Other classrooms dressed in themes including cheerleaders, decade days, sports, rainbow, future careers, and crazy hats.

Reynolds proclamation encourages Iowans from all walks of life to utilize the 5-2-1-0 Healthy Choice Count.

The purpose of the Healthy Choice Count is to promote an increase of physical activity, healthy eating, and policy and environmental change.

Each week in October will focus on one of the four habits corresponding to the numbers.

The Healthiest State walk encompassed the encouragement to get active for one hour a day.

This week, participants are encouraged to make wise choices by consuming five or more fruits or vegetables each day.

Next week, Healthiest State participants will limit their screen time to two or less hours of recreational use.

The final, the daunting challenge of consuming zero sugary drinks is on the table.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Ward@southeastiowaunion.com