Whereas, a decline in physical activity has contributed to the unprecedented epidemic of childhood obesity;

Whereas, regular physical activity is necessary to support normal and healthy growth in children;

Whereas, the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend that children engage in at least 60 minutes of physical activity on most, and preferably all, days of the week;

Whereas, children spend many of their waking hours at school and therefore need to be active during the school day to meet the recommendations of the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans;

Whereas, teaching children about physical education and sports not only ensures that they are physically active during the school day, but also educates them on how to be physically active and its importance; 

Whereas, according to a 2006 survey by the Department of Health and Human Services, only 3.8 percent of elementary schools, 7.9 percent of middle schools, and 2.1 percent of high schools provide daily physical education or its equivalent for the entire school year, and 22 percent of schools do not require students to take any physical education at all;

Whereas, according to the survey, only 13.7% of elementary schools, 15.2% of middle schools, and 3.0% of high schools provided physical education at least three days per week, or the equivalent thereof, for the entire school year for students in all grades in the school;

Whereas, research shows that fit and active children are more likely to thrive academically;  

Whereas, participation in sports and physical activity improves self-esteem and body image in children and adults;

Therefore, be it resolved this event urges these participants to recognize the month of MAY as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month and to renew their commitment to make regular physical activity a part of their lives and quality physical education programs a part of this community’s schools.