Saint John High School

Saint John High School is making Wellness work!

Since June of 2012, Wellness has really become an integral part of life for faculty at Saint John High School. With a new Wellness Rep getting the ball rolling, staff members were challenged to step up their fitness levels. The challenge was approached with a focus on personal improvement, striving to reduce Cholesterol levels and weight in particular. The staff settled on a charitable reward system, rewarding every percent lost with a $1 payment donated to Bobby’s House Hospice.

The first stage of the competition ended in December 2012, resulting in a $450 donation to Bobby’s House. This donation was the result of 450 lost lbs, the culmination of the efforts of almost 70 participating staff members. After the donations had been made, a new fitness challenge was launched, which is currently underway which includes a friendly teachers versus students component.

In addition to the challenge, the staff purchased six spin bikes that are used in classes held once a week, and available for the staff to use on their free time as well. Many teachers with knowledge of fitness have stepped into a leadership role, helping facilitate group workouts for their colleagues. Every week there are several groups busy working out, involving not only the bikes, but circuit and weight training, interval running and more.

The amazing efforts of staff members have been backed up by talks from guest speakers in the community including a dietician, a naturopath and yoga and fitness experts. The school cafeteria has expanded its menu to offer an extra healthy soup to staff as well. Staff efforts have been documented and celebrated in a newsletter produced by dedicated volunteers.

Kudos to staff at SJHS for making Wellness a part of their everyday lives!