IL HJR0030

Childhood obesity has more than tripled in the past 30 years, with obesity rates among children ages 6-11 increasing from 7% in 1980 to 20% in 2008, and among adolescents ages 12-19 increasing from 5% to 18% over the same period.

Schools have direct contact with over 95% of young people ages 5-17 for approximately 6 hours per day during critical developmental years, making them key institutions for promoting student health.

Encourages educators and school administrators to dedicate one week of each school year to a fitness awareness week, with suggested discussion topics including nutrition, physical activity, tobacco and drug prevention, cardio protocols, eating disorders, and physical activity facts.

Recognizes fifth grade students at Columbus Elementary School in Edwardsville for building awareness of physical fitness importance.

Directs presentation of this resolution to Columbus Elementary School in Edwardsville.