Wellness Policy

First Step, Inc.

WELLNESS POLICY

First Step, Inc. acknowledges that the health and physical well-being of the students that we serve directly affects their ability to learn.   As research has shown, childhood obesity increases the incidence of adult diseases occurring in children and adolescents such as heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. The increased risk carries forward into their adulthood.   Research indicates that a healthy diet and regular physical activity can help prevent obesity and the diseases resulting from it.   First Step, Inc. is keenly aware that the eating habits and exercise patterns of our students cannot be changed overnight, but at the same time the board of directors believes that it is necessary to strive to create a healthy and safe environment that consistently promotes good nutrition and physical activity.

The problem of obesity and inactivity is a public health issue. First Step, Inc. accepts the responsibility to our students to promote good nutrition, which will include whole grain rich foods and fresh fruits and vegetables, and physical activity programs. First Step, Inc. is dedicated to the students we serve and accepts the responsibility of improving the school nutrition environment, promoting student health and reducing childhood obesity. Therefore, First Step, Inc. will adhere to the Arkansas Rules Governing Nutrition and Physical Activity Standards in Arkansas Public Schools.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

It is our policy that all students will receive the maximum amount of physical activity that their physical disability will allow.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

The school nurse’s primary focus is to promote wellness and disease prevention by early identification of hidden health problems that interfere with learning. The school nurse is on duty during school hours. She is available to the students who become ill or injured during school hours and will contact a parent/guardian when the situation warrants. Parent/guardian(s) are encouraged to contact the school nurse with any questions or concerns they might have regarding their child’s health and safety at school.

(Addendum 01/2015)