Texas Schools Bringing the Focus to Student’s Health and Wellness with Healthy LEAP Program

Texas Schools Bringing the Focus to Student’s Health and Wellness with Healthy LEAP Program

Schools across Texas are utilizing Special Olympics’ Healthy LEAP programming to teach students about living healthy lifestyles

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE : January 24, 2020

Healthy LEAP (Lifestyle Education and Practice) is a series of health, nutrition, fitness, safety and injury prevention lessons and practical applications created specifically for youth and adults with and without intellectual disabilities. With lessons geared towards preschool-aged students through high-school, the 10-week courses provide students with an age-appropriate understanding of how to care for themselves mentally and physically. Each lesson includes specific tasks and activities to jumpstart the practice of a healthy lifestyle.

When a school implements the Healthy LEAP programming, they are automatically engaging students in inclusive-programming as the lessons are designed with all students in mind. In addition to the focus on health and nutrition, the program provides students with accountability to peers, breaks down social barriers, and promotes a Unified classroom.

Each weekly lesson includes take home sheets and activities to engage the entire family. Additionally, Healthy LEAP lessons are reinforced by a multimedia information campaign delivered via text message, email, webinars, flyers and online videos. Families can expect topics such as food groups, healthy weight, bone healthy, stress management, personal hygiene, and more.

Currently, SOTX has over 50 campuses engaging in Healthy LEAP programming, with a large increase expected for Fall 2020. All training and program materials are provided to schools by SOTX, making implementation a feasible part of any school’s schedule.
For more information and to get your campus set up with Healthy LEAP please contact Keara Uhl, SOTX Health Initiatives Manager, at (210) 530-9898 or kuhl@sotx.org. 

About Special Olympics Texas
Special Olympics Texas (SOTX) is a privately funded non-profit organization that changes lives through the power of sport by encouraging and empowering people with intellectual disabilities, promoting acceptance for all, and fostering communities of understanding and respect.  SOTX provides continuing opportunities for more than 58,800 children and adults with intellectual disabilities throughout the Lone Star State to realize their potential, develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage and experience joy and friendship.  To learn more, visit www.specialolympicstexas.org or call 800.876.5646.  Engage with us on: Twitter @SOTexas; fb.com/SpecialOlympicsTX; youtube.com/specialolympicstexas.