WHAT IS
CHAWK?
Championing Health And Wellness in Kids (CHAWK) is a group of parents at Ashlawn
Elementary School in Arlington, Va., seeking to ensure, through a variety of ways, that
children's health and wellness is a central focus of the school day. In our work, we draw
heavily from research, which shows that healthy children are better learners, score higher
marks on tests, exhibit fewer behavioral problems in the classroom, and are, in general,
more relaxed. Launched in 2005 under the
auspices of Ashlawn’s PTA, CHAWK lobbied the School Board to expand recess for all
elementary school students in Arlington; sought changes to Ashlawn’s schedule so that
recess precedes lunch for most children; has held four Fun Runs, a Health Fair that drew
400, and a Film Night with a presentation by a nutritionist; helped spearhead regular Walk
and Bike to School days at Ashlawn; and works in the Courtyard Garden and encourages
teachers to bring children outside more frequently.
This year, CHAWK:
- Launched Fruit Fridays, which encourage children to
bring fruit for snack every Friday. Whole Foods donated fruit last Friday for our kickoff.
- Started Feet Friday, which encourages children to walk
or bike to school every Friday (with adult supervision, as needed), as they are able.
Ashlawn also will take part in the county’s Walk and Bike to School Day on Wednesday,
Oct. 3.
- CHAWK plans additional events for the rest of the school year,
including a Courtyard Garden event on Earth Day and its annual Fun Run and Walk
in the spring.
CHAWK Officers:
Chair: Diane Schwartz
Ashlines Liaison: Vacant
Administrative Support Coordinator: Vacant
Webkeeper: Andy Tarr
President emerita: Anne Bridgman |
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