Feature article

Jaguars get jumping at Johnson

Article and photos by Nema Brewer-Candy
October 30, 2006

A new partnership between the University of Kentucky’s College of Medicine and Johnson Elementary is designed to help kids get a jump on a healthy lifestyle. This pilot program, known as the Jumping Jaguars and Activate Johnson, will get kids moving after school and help their parents learn more about nutrition and wellness.

“The healthier the kids are the better they’ll do in school,” said Principal Frank LaBoone. “Their self-esteem will hopefully increase as well.”

Two days a week, for an hour and a half after school, kids will get moving by participating in physical activities. Their parents will take part in a four week consumer family science class in January to learn how to prepare healthier meals and cook on a fixed income.

“Raising two kids on a budget can be hard,” said Louise Perry, whose fourth grade son Andrew was invited to a kick off event officially launching the program. “The classes will help a lot.”

Roughly fifty Jumping Jaguars were targeted based on their Body Mass Index. Andrew’s just glad he was chosen.

“I want to learn how to get physical and have more fun,” he said.

In addition to the after-school program and classes for parents, students will receive a free, one-year membership to the YMCA. Those who actively take part in 80 percent or more of the program will also receive a scholarship account at Community Trust Bank, based on their level of participation. Health care professionals from UK and the Lexington-Fayette County Health Department will provide services for asthma diagnosis, treatment, and education. College of Medicine and College of Nursing students will serve as role models for kids wishing to enter the medical field.

“Our hope is for the children to become inspired to pursue careers in health care, whether it is becoming a physician, nurse, physical therapist, dentist or pursuing another health profession,” said Dr. Jay Perman, the Dean of UK’s College of Medicine. “But regardless of their career path, we want them to believe in themselves and pursue higher education.”

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