PARKERSBURG - Hamilton Middle School students joined youth throughout the nation Tuesday to get up and get moving.
The school was one of four state middle schools, including Tyler Consolidated Middle School in Sistersville, to participate in the national "Let's Move! Flash Workout" program. The event was sponsored by the White House as part of first lady Michelle Obama's childhood obesity prevention initiative, with music and choreography provided by award-winning singer Beyonce.
The flash workout was produced in partnership with the National Middle School Association, the National School Boards Association and the American Association of School Administrators.
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students exercising
The event, held nationally at 1:42 p.m. Tuesday, had middle schoolers participate in a choreographed "Let's Move!" dance exercise.
About 150 Hamilton students took part in the dance and exercise routine.
"It might not have been perfect, but the kids have moved more than they ever have before," said Denise Kerr, physical education instructor for the school. "Anything that can get kids to move more is superb."
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Photos by Michael Erb
Hamilton Middle School students joined with youth throughout the nation Tuesday to get up and get moving as part of the “Let’s Move! Flash Workout” program.
Kerr said the students have been working to learn the routine for about three weeks, practicing during each physical education class and several 8th-period classes as well. The choreography video also was available on YouTube for students to watch and learn at home.
"The great thing is the kids don't think of this as physical education," Kerr said. "To them its just fun."
The program also provided DVD copies of the routine as well as about 60 "Let's Move!" T-shirts, which were worn by students during the routine.
Kerr said the program was made available to Hamilton because the school belongs to the National Middle School Association. The voluntary event was opened up to all students in grades 6-8.
"I think this should be done every year," Kerr said.
