Derby Middle School awarded new fitness center

DERBY >> The Derby Middle School is among three Connecticut schools that will receive a state-of-the-art fitness center for demonstrating new and innovative ways for promoting student physical activity and wellness, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy and Chairman of the National Foundation for Governors’ Fitness Councils Jake Steinfield announced Friday.

Taken from Derby Middle School website

The Derby Middle School, Washington Middle School in Meriden and the Maria Sanchez Elementary School in Hartford will each receive a state-of-the-art Live PositivelyTM Fitness Center as part of the National Champion Schools campaign, according to a press release.

The fitness centers are fully funded through public/private partnerships and do not rely on taxpayer dollars or state funding, the release states.
“By encouraging participation in physical activities in our schools, we can begin to address the widespread problem of childhood obesity,” said Malloy in a press release. “While only three schools won a new fitness center, all participating schools are winners for setting our children on the right path to fitness. I am proud to have partnered with Jake Steinfeld to bring this National Champion Schools campaign to Connecticut schools and applaud the winning schools for introducing innovative ideas for improving physical fitness.”

“Childhood obesity is not a Democrat or Republican issue, it’s a kids’ issue and Gov. Malloy has stepped up big time to help combat this growing problem,” said Jake “Body by Jake” Steinfeld in the release.
“We’re thrilled to award these three Connecticut schools with new fitness centers because they have demonstrated a passion for fitness and in living healthy a lifestyle. I know that academics and fitness go hand in hand and when you provide the schools with the tools, students will excel beyond their wildest dreams. Not only will these students be healthier, but they’ll also have increased confidence, improved self-esteem and will achieve greater academic success.”


The National Foundation’s goal is to build a nation of the fittest, healthiest kids in the world. Physical activity and exercise are shown to help prevent and treat more than 40 chronic diseases, enhance individual health and quality of life and reduce health care costs.
In schools, studies show that physical activity improves academic achievement, increases confidence and self-esteem, reduces discipline problems, cuts absenteeism and fosters better interpersonal relationships.

For more information about the National Foundation, visit http://natgovfit.org/.