Group gets award for running around
"Students love the program," said Principal Nick Biagini. "It really has become the culture of the school."
The award came with a plaque and $1,000, which Biagini said will be used to buy T-shirts, knapsacks and water bottles to keep the program going.
Each year the Catholic board acknowledges innovative programs and special projects at local schools with the award.
St. Gerard Majella was one of nine winners that were honoured at a ceremony on April 22 at the Catholic Education Centre.
St. Gerard Majella Roadrunners' Club was given the award because of its focus on raising student morale, overall school spirit and student fitness levels, improving overall academic achievement and promoting leadership amongst students and teachers.
More than 80 students are members of the club and they run four times a week.
"Even the Grade 1 students are participating," Biagini said, adding this is the first year he invited those students to join the program.
Biagini said the school is located in a low-income area and many parents can't afford to put their children in organized sports and the children live in highrise buildings.
"I talk to a lot of the kids," he said. "They tell me that this club is the only exercise they get."
