Tempe Elementary Physical Education Teacher Awarded $2,500 Grant!

Thew Physical Education Teacher Zach Gault, was awarded $2,500 to expand and improve the Thew Running Club.

Gault applied for and won a $2,500 grant through the ING Run for Something Better program.

The grant funds will provide students with the best, most cutting edge running tools to improve their cardiovascular fitness.

The first improvement will be implementing a mileage tracking software called Stride Track. Using this system, up to 350 students will have a laminated card with their name and a bar code on it. As they complete laps around the field, their cards will be scanned using a small handheld scanner. The scanner is then connected to a computer and all student information is uploaded to the Stride Track website, which is easily accessible by participants.

"We are really excited about this new high-tech improvement to our program," said Gault.

Individual student and class awards will be given based on mileage accomplishments. Awards will include certificates, key chain trinkets, necklaces, bracelets, pedometers, watches, shirts, shorts, hats, and running shoes.

The second improvement will be providing each participant with bottled water, a sports drink, and a healthy snack at the end of each one-hour training session.

Guest speakers and special guests will also visit the club participants to give presentations, run clinics, and inspire the runners.

Thew students and families will not only be strongly encouraged to watch but also to participate with their son or daughter during training sessions.

"This way, not only will Thew students benefit, but the local community as a whole will see positive results from the program," said Gault.