PHILADELPHIA – On Saturday, November 19, 2016, students who attend three of the city’s first Community Schools participated in Philadelphia Marathon’s Kids Fun Run. The nearly two dozen runners represented William Cramp Elementary School, William Tilden Middle School and Edward Gideon Elementary School.

The Fun Run is a short-distance, non-competitive event for children ages 6-12. The Run was designed to show children that it’s never too early to start exercising and how running can be enjoyable. It provided participants with a positive experience while also encouraging active lifestyles and physical fitness. Community Schools’ students received complimentary registration, t-shirts and medals.

Akissi, an eighth grader from Tilden Middle School in Southwest Philly, said that it was fun to cross the same finish line as the marathoners.

“At first I was scared because there were so many people watching,” said Akissi. “But after my first race I realized there was nothing to be nervous about because everyone was cheering for me. I can’t wait to do this again!”

“The Fun Run is just one of many ways we are working with other city departments to bring new, exciting opportunities to Philadelphia students,” said Director of Community Schools Susan Gobreski. “A major component of the community schools approach is improving the physical well-being of our children because we know that when students are well-nourished, properly hydrated, and physically active, they perform better in the classroom. We hope this experience shows students that exercise is not only physically and mentally beneficial, but also fun!”

“The Philadelphia Marathon Race Weekend isn’t just for adults,” said City Representative & Marathon Executive Director Sheila Hess. “We encouraged Philadelphians of all ages to participate in the Diaper Derby, Toddler Trot, Fun Run, the Rothman 8K, as well as volunteer or just cheer on fellow Philadelphians. I look forward to partnering with the Mayor’s Office of Education to expand this opportunity for more community schools’ students in the future.”

View or download photos from the Kids Fun Run and follow #HealthySchoolsPHL on Twitter to learn about our other efforts to improve health practices in community schools.