Kern Valley Sun
Anyone driving by Wallace Elementary School these days will likely see a bunch of enthusiastic kids running laps around the playground. They are participating in the nationwide Mighty Milers program which is sponsored by the New York Road Runners Association. NYRR, which was founded in 1958 with 47 members, has since grown into the world’s foremost running organization with a membership of 40,000. The NYRR Foundation was created according to the website, “To promote health, well-being, and personal achievement among under-served children with little or no access to athletic programming.” Their programs help youth of all ages, fitness levels and athletic abilities utilize the discipline of running to improve their health, and build character.
Hundreds of schools throughout the country are participating in the program at no cost. Other schools can ultilize the program, but on an “at cost” basis. By providing students with incentives such as membership cards, medals, and certificates for each five miles completed, participants are inspired to complete 26.2 miles, the distance of a marathon.
 A group of Mighty Milers from Wallace Elementary School take a moment to pose for a group picture on the front lawn of the school where they run their laps during their lunch time recess. |
The program has shown to helps kids improve mental focus, work better together and raise test scores, so it is not surprising that Mighty Milers has the full support of Wallace Elementary Principal, Stephanie Pope who was instrumental in bringing the program to the school. The program is coordinated by first grade teacher, Kathy Dwyer. Dwyer, a runner herself stated, “The kids really enjoy Mighty Milers. Not only is it helping them to stay fit, but it gets them all ready to settle down and learn. It’s an all round positive program.” Hundreds of Wallace students are currently enrolled in the program and Dwyer has high hopes that even more will sign up for the 2009-2010 school year.
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