WABI reports on Old Town Elementary, UMaine Extension partnership in WinterKids competition
WABI (Channel 5) reported on Old Town Elementary School’s participation in the WinterKids Winter Games program, a four-week challenge that involves physical activities and nutrition. One elementary school from each of Maine’s 16 counties was selected to participate in the challenge — Old Town Elementary was picked to represent Penobscot County. Each school earns points by completing four weekly challenges. In addition to extra time dedicated to outdoor activities, a focus on eating healthy is a big part of the games. With the help of University of Maine Cooperative Extension associate professor Kate Yerxa, students were able to take part in a fruit tasting as a way to introduce them to new healthy foods. Yerxa, who also teaches an after-school cooking club, provided teachers with nutritional materials they could use to help meet the expectations of the WinterKids challenges.