A Wisconsin congressman wants more emphasis on physical education in the nation's schools. La Crosse Democrat, Representative Ron Kind has once again introduced his "Fit Kids Act" legislation in Washington.
Kind says his legislation calls for additional professional training for school district leadership and teachers. Why the focus on activity and education? Kind says active kids perform better in class, and greater levels of activity will help counter the epidemics of childhood obesity and diabetes. "Making sure our kids are physically active, so that they're healthy, is important for their development, but also for their success in school," says Kind. "We know that it's impossible to develop a healthy mind without a healthy body."
Kinds's bill requires schools, districts, and states to report on students' physical activities, including how much time they spend in P.E. compared to national recommendations.