Monday, October 19, 2009
Huntersville, N.C. -- Presbyterian Hospital Huntersville announces a new partnership, Learn Well. Be Well! with three Huntersville schools. Promoting a healthy lifestyle through health education and fitness activities for students and teachers, Learn Well. Be Well! will launch in early November at Hopewell High School, Alexander Middle School and Blythe Elementary School.
“We’re excited to be able to help students and teachers live healthy lifestyles,” said David Cook, MD, senior vice president for strategic growth and development. “As a physician and a father, I know the importance of keeping our kids healthy. Eating right and exercise are important components, as are learning how to manage stress and peer pressure. We’re excited to partner with the town of Huntersville and Charlotte-Mecklenburg schools to bring a comprehensive program to kids.”
The program will educate students and teachers in a variety of ways, including a daily “health tip” on the morning announcements, fitness activities courtesy of Huntersville Family Fitness and Aquatics and a continuing presence at athletic events and school activities. Physicians will be available for question-and-answer sessions for students and teachers. Presbyterian Hospital Huntersville worked with the leadership at each school to determine relevant health topics, including hand hygiene, flu, stress management and peer pressure. Physicians will also educate teachers about ways to help their students cope with problems, as well as when to seek help for themselves or a student. Each school has an age-appropriate personalized curriculum.
“I’m excited about this new partnership and what it means for our community,” said Jill Swain, mayor of Huntersville. “Kids are the future of our community, and it’s important to equip them with the tools they need to stay healthy both now and later in life.”
Learn Well. Be Well! will run through the end of the 2009-2010 school year, with hopes of continuing and expanding in the future.
