School-Based Initiatives

5th Gear Kids, a community-based program in Aurora Public Schools and Cherry Creek School District, aims to teach smart nutrition decision-making from an early age.

Funded by a grant from the Colorado Health Foundation and awarded to Children’s Hospital Colorado Foundation, this collaborative effort is developing an obesity prevention program for fifth graders and their families. Energy balance skills will be taught via science curriculum in the classroom and in PE class. Homework will invite family involvement in healthy nutrition and physical activities. Businesses in the community will provide exclusive fifth grader discounts and promotions for the healthy choice. In the planning stage right now, this program will roll out in the schools in August 2012.