POWDERSVILLE—A new program designed to keep students active kicks off next week at Concrete Primary.

The school is getting set to host a new program entitled “Kids Fit Health Week,” running Monday through Thursday on May 13 through 17.

According to organizers, the program aims to teach kids about healthy and unhealthy foods, limiting television and gaming time and the importance of getting outside and exercising.

“South Carolina has one of the highest obesity rates in the nation, and studies have shown that the problem usually stems from unhealthy habits formed during youth,” Ashlyn McConnell, Kids Fit Health Week Project Leader said. “My goal is to teach kids the difference between healthy and unhealthy habits, and encourage these healthy habits now.”

McConnell, a tenth grader at Powdersville High School, said nutritional snacks will be provided to K-5 students each day to give examples of healthy choices.

The two headlining activities of the week will include a “race day” on Wednesday, May 15, where the students will get a true race experience and the annual Field Day on May 17.

McConnell said she hopes students will enter the summer months excited about getting outside more often and having fun, while choosing healthy snacks (fruit, cheese sticks, trail mix) to keep up their energy.

“We hope parents and teachers will see that healthy eating can be inexpensive, and even the preferable choice over chips, when children are given a healthy alternative,” said McConnell.

McConnell said this is simply a small project that she hopes will have a major impact.

“Although we live in a small community, I feel that this project will set an example for others of how easy and affordable it is to maintain a healthy lifestyle,” comments McConnell. “I am very excited and enthusiastic about this project!”

The program is funded through grants and donations from local businesses including; Wal-Mart, Ingles, The UPS Store, Bi-Lo, and Costco.