FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

2011 Jan Seaman Award

RESTON, VA, March 31, 2011 – The Office of Head Start and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have both been named winners of the 2011 Jan Seaman National Recognition Award, given by the American Association for Physical Activity and Recreation (AAPAR). 

"This award is named after a woman who has spent her life making physical activity more inclusive and enjoyable for all," AAPAR President Dr. Julia Ann Hypes said. "The Office of Head Start and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration perfectly reflect that same commitment. Together we will work to improve physical activity in all our lives."

The Jan Seaman National Recognition Award is given to organizations that have done exceptional work in supporting physical activity or recreation as it relates to AAPAR's mission and have supported AAPAR as an organization. The 2011 awards have been given in recognition of the NHTSA and Head Start's extraordinary collaborative efforts with AAPAR in implementing two major grant awards, totaling $12,324,000. 

The Office of Head Start has been cited for its award and assistance with the Head Start-Body Start (HSBS) Center and Programs, administered by AAPAR and the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE). Head Start-Body Start aims to increase physical activity, outdoor play, and healthy eating among Head Start and Early Head Start Center children, families, and staff.

The NHTSA has been honored for its award and support for AAPAR's Bicycle Safety Curriculum. AAPAR and NHTSA are collaborating to develop a fun, engaging curriculum that teachers and recreation professionals will use to teach safe bicycling to children. 

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Contact:
Mariah Burton Nelson
mnelson@aahperd.org
703-476-3430

AAPAR, one of 5 national associations that make up the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD), serves more than 8,600 professors, teachers, trainers, and community leaders who promote meaningful physical activity and recreation across the lifespan. AAPAR advocates fitness and fun for every body, with a focus on inclusive community based programs.

AAHPERD, an alliance of five national associations, six district associations, and a Research Consortium, provides its members with a comprehensive and coordinated array of resources, support, and programs to help practitioners improve their skills to further the health and well-being of the American public. It is the largest organization of professionals involved in physical education, recreation, fitness, dance, health promotion and all specialties related to achieving an active, healthy lifestyle. AAHPERD serves 20,000 members and has its headquarters in Reston, Virginia, 25 miles west of Washington DC. To learn more, visit www.aahperd.org.