NY A04695

Commissioner of education directed to establish a two-year pilot program in at least 10 public schools (75% in New York City) to improve physical education and physical activity, with program expanding to additional schools upon request and available funding

Participating schools required to provide minimum 45 minutes per week of physical education and physical activity for each student, delivered through contract with outside entity that offers proven effectiveness, flexibility in scheduling, nutrition/health education, accountability systems, training, and performance incentives

Pilot program may coordinate with Road Runner Mighty Milers program, a school-based initiative combining daily aerobic activities with goal-setting, nutrition, academic, and health education components

Schools eligible for participation must have at least 50% of students qualifying for federal free and reduced lunches, demonstrate limited facilities/resources for physical education, and provide a site coordinator

Department of education required to evaluate program and report preliminary findings by May 15, 2010 and final report by July 15, 2010; pilot program operates during 2009-2010 and 2010-2011 school years and expires June 30, 2011