Children, Youth & Education
The McConnell Foundation has long been committed to increasing opportunities for children and youth of the region. In addition to our long-standing Yosemite program and scholarships for high schoolers, the funding of several programs and projects have their origins in this commitment.
After several years of grantmaking in the area of education, it became increasingly clear to The McConnell Foundation's board and staff that school performance and readiness is affected by a child's nutrition and activity. The board also recognized that our communities have needs and aspirations that may not directly involve education, but have an impact on the development and education of children and youth. Staff has been focused on addressing the needs surrounding all ages of children and youth. A key initiative that addresses the overall health and wellbeing of children is the Healthy Students Initiative
Healthy Students Initiative
Three elementary schools kicked off the 2008 school year taking part in a new initiative that aims to transform the school culture to promote healthy eating and physical activity.
Bella Vista Elementary, Cypress Elementary and Lassen View Elementary have been identified for this effort, which will last seven years and will implement strategies such as hiring full-time physical education teachers, providing a healthy breakfast to all students, enhancing existing school garden efforts, and providing resources to families, enabling them to eat healthier and be more active.
Cypress Elementary is excited about the opportunity to participate in the Healthy Students Initiative. "We are looking forward to enhancing our school environment to help families develop healthy habits in their children," said Cindy Bishop, principal of Cypress Elementary School.
Research shows the academic success of students is strongly linked to their health. Students who are more physically active and consume a nutritionally balanced diet perform better in school. Research also shows that it is easier for individuals to be more active and eat healthfully when their environment encourages such behaviors.
"This first year is primarily about planning. We're excited about working with students, parents and school personnel to begin to plan these changes," said April Jurisich, Program Coordinator.
The Healthy Students Initiative partners include the three elementary schools, Shasta County Public Health, Shasta Family YMCA, and The McConnell Foundation. It is a project of Healthy Shasta, a partnership committed to making healthy eating and physical activity the easy choice. For more information, visit www.healthyshasta.org or call April Jurisich at (530) 245-6843.
Children, Youth & Education Grants
- Anderson New Technology High School (ANTHS)
- College OPTIONS
- GEMS - Great Explorations in Math and Science