Today I visited North Valley High School, an Oregon GEAR UP school in the Three Rivers School District outside of Grants Pass. I was there to talk with principal Linda Hugle about her school and the success they've had during the past few years improving student learning. Linda described several recent initiatives including implementation of a trimester schedule but was most proud of the opportunity provided for students to have some physical activity during the school day. In addition to longer passing time between classes Linda arranged to have exercise equipment installed on the school lawn outside the front door. Students are able to use the equipment between classes, during lunch and before and after school. The combination of physical activity, fresh air, and an opportunity to relax a bit during the school day is valued because of the positive connection to student learning.Linda and her staff are congratulated for taking the initiative and doing something that would be unheard of in many comprehensive high schools. It is a great example of focusing on students' needs and finding a way to meet them while maintaining an excellent academic experience.
