BIDDEFORD — In recognition of the school’s commitment to healthy eating and living, St. James Catholic School in Biddeford has become the first school in York County to receive the Let’s Go! 5210 Gold School of Distinction Award for its pre-kindergarten program and Grades K-8, according to the Diocese of Portland.
Let’s Go! is a Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital program with partners across the country that focuses on preventing childhood obesity. The name of the national program, 5210, comes from its principles urging people to eat five or more fruits or vegetables each day, spend two hours or less on recreational screen time, participate in one hour or more of physical activity, and consume zero sugary drinks.
“St. James Catholic School is committed to offering healthy foods for students,” said Principal Nancy Naimey. “All grains are at least 50 percent whole wheat flour, most items are homemade and desserts are healthy choices. Physical exercise is encouraged with K-5 having two physical education classes a week. Recess is still offered to middle school students, and two recesses are offered to the younger grades.
“We have found that a healthy lunch and more physical activity helps students to focus. Teachers are also involved in exercise together after school. There is a healthy focus everywhere.”
In addition to the awards for the students’ efforts, the school’s food services director, Yvette Tremblay, received the 5210 REDY Award for going “above and beyond in establishing a healthy environment for students.”
On Nov. 14, at an awards presentation honoring the students and Tremblay, the school showed that it is also a community dedicated to service. Students, families, teachers and community members donated frozen turkeys and other food items to the Knights of Columbus to be distributed to those less fortunate at Thanksgiving. Several Knights attended the event to collect the donations.
“It was a wonderful gathering to celebrate their dedication to good health while providing food for many in need this Thanksgiving,” said Naimey. “It is so exciting to see the children develop the skills needed to live a life of purpose and integrity. Our school community is blessed.”
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