Elitha Donner has adopted the SPARK program.  The SPARK (Sports, Play, and Active Recreation for Kids) Programs began studying elementary physical education in 1989, and today, the name SPARK represents a collection of exemplary, research-based physical activity/nutrition programs.  The original SPARK study was initially supported by the Heart, Lung and Blood Institute of the National Institutes.  SPARK is dedicated to improving the quantity and quality of physical activity for children and teachers everywhere and countering our nation’s growing epidemic of childhood obesity.  SPARK hopes to accomplish these goals by disseminating materials and services created during and after our seven-year study to schools and organizations throughout the world.

 

SPARK elementary physical education has been selected as the intervention program in many important research studies and cited in the Surgeon General’s Report as a “school-based solution to our nation’s health care crisis.” SPARK PE was validated by the National Diffusion Network of the U.S. Department of Education in 1993 and earned “ Exemplary Program” status.  Physical Education instruction consists of a program providing for student participation in psychomotor activities, gymnastics, individual games and group games.  Good sportsmanship and positive attitude are stressed throughout the year.