What is Change the Game?
The Healthy Kids, Healthy Schools "Change the Game" project is a student-developed promotional push to encourage Houston Independent School District students to make better food choices at school while increasing their physical activity throughout the day. With the help of their school's Health Coach, students involved in Change the Game will be exposed to awareness-building posters promoting healthy choices at school, have increased involvement in decisions affecting their health and wellness at school, and participate in Step It Up, a pedometer challenge, among other activities.
Every step of the way, HISD students have been involved in the creation of Change the Game. From deciding the name and colors of the slogan, to explaining what vehicles will and won't work in their schools and with their peers, to coming up with Change the Game project activities and reviewing and critiquing campaign posters, students have a voice.
Students will continue to play an important role to create "buzz" about Change the Game and to motivate their peers to participate in project activities.
How was Change the Game developed?
During the Healthy Kids, Healthy Schools (HKHS) Appreciative Inquiry Summit in February 2009, student attendees expressed a desire to be involved in the school policies and practices that affect them. Their mantra "No fixation without representation!" reflected their eagerness to participate in shaping wellness activities and improvements within their schools. HKHS has made a dedicated effort to listen to students and involve them in developing and delivering wellness solutions.
Over 350 elementary, middle and high school students from 35 HISD schools have participated in developing Change the Game. Students have responded to online inquiries and surveys, participated in in-class focus groups, attended sessions at the HISD Summer Leadership Institute and Teen Summit, and shared their input on conference calls.
Materials/Resources
Change the Game materials are available for download. Items include:
- Change the Game logos for use on related promotional materials
| Printable materials and resources available in the Step It Up - The 200 Mile Challenge how-to packet include: |
|
|
- Activities/steps/miles conversion charts
|
|
|
|
