Communications :: Press Release

Methodist Mansfield Medical Center Donates 4,000 Pedometers for Entire Mansfield ISD Staff

[October 15, 2010]

Methodist Mansfield Medical Center will provide a pedometer to every staff member of the Mansfield Independent School District as well as sponsor a Principals' Fitness Challenge program to promote the importance of health and fitness. By helping principals and school personnel create a healthier atmosphere for learning and working, Methodist Mansfield Medical Center is creating a healthy environment for the community.

“Methodist Mansfield Medical Center is joining forces with Mansfield ISD to promote healthy schools and improve health and academic outcomes,” says President of Methodist Mansfield Medical Center Laura Irvine. “By providing pedometers and sponsoring the Principals' Fitness Challenge we hope to increase healthy behaviors, encourage healthy role models for students, increase employee morale and promote a positive community image.”

Creating a Health Conscious Atmosphere

Healthy schools create an environment where students can become fit, healthy, and ready to learn. A health conscious atmosphere helps students achieve their full academic potential and supports them in developing lifelong healthy behaviors. Methodist Mansfield Medical Center recognizes that what happens in the classroom, gymnasium, cafeteria, at school events, at home, and in the community are interrelated and can reinforce healthy lifestyles and decisions.

“I want our employees to know we value their health and wellness,” says Dr. Bob Morrison MISD Superintendent of Schools. “If our staff identifies even small ways to improve their health, we'll have accomplished something positive. We hope this challenge becomes a catalyst to promote district wellness, improve workforce productivity and reduce the costs of employee absenteeism and health care.”

The Principals' Fitness Challenge is designed for campus administrators to voluntarily challenge themselves to a free and simple-to-follow 12-week fitness and wellness program. The goal is to encourage participants to take the first steps towards living a healthier lifestyle by increasing physical activity and improving nutrition. MISD staff members are invited to participate through championing their administrator and even taking the challenges on themselves.

The 4,000 donated pedometers were distributed to Mansfield ISD employees October 11-15 along with training information on how to get started on using the devices.