A Microsoft Word version of this letter is available for download and PRINTING.

September 1st, 2010

TO THE ADMINISTRATOR ADDRESSED:

Subject: 2nd Annual Walk Across Texas Challenge

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) will release Physical Fitness Assessment Initiative results from the 2009-2010 school year during the second week of September in conjunction with Obesity Awareness Week. The data, to be posted at www.tea.state.tx.us./index4.aspx?id=3975, continues to validate the need for improved health programs and policies throughout the state. In order to support school district implementation of effective strategies for achieving improved student health, TEA is announcing the Second Annual Walk Across Texas Challenge as a way to promote physical activity in schools<./p>

Walk Across Texas has helped thousands of children and adults establish a habit of regular physical activity by tracking their progress as they walk 830 miles “across” the state. This research-based program, developed by Texas AgriLife Extension Service, provides excellent tools to support physical activity programs in schools. Every classroom in each school can develop a team and those that accumulate the most mileage will be recognized by TEA and Texas A&M University. Complete program details and materials can be found at http://walkacrosstexas.tamu.edu.

TEA staff are challenging school personnel in a team competition over an eight-week period. Please encourage your campus employees to put together teams of eight and join TEA staff as we serve as role models for Texas students. Team progress can be tracked through a blog on the Walk Across Texas website. If you have any questions or wish to receive training, marketing materials, class resources, and/or technical assistance for Walk Across Texas, contact your county Texas AgriLife Extension Service Agent. To find your agent, go to http://county-tx.tamu.edu and click on your county for contact information.

Start developing your teams now and register online no later than Sunday, September 12, 2010 at http://walkacrosstexas.tamu.edu. The Second Annual Walk Across Texas Challenge begins Monday, September 13 and ends Sunday, November 7. We had excellent participation last year and hope that this year we can have even more students, teachers, and school personnel participate in this challenge. There is no better time than the beginning of the school year to embark upon a healthier lifestyle.

Sincerely,

Marissa Rathbone
Director of Health and Safety