CHP Champions

What is the CHP Champions program?

CHP Champions is a student fitness program offered by the Leon County Schools system during the extended-day hours of school and is available to all 3rd-12th grade students, free of charge. CHP Champions aims to get students moving, experience the benefits of regular exercise, and develop healthy lifestyle habits. The goal of the program is to improve the health and fitness of our community’s youth. The program began in Fall of 2006 with eight schools and added nine additional schools in the Spring of 2007. In 2008, the program expanded to all Leon County Schools. CHP Champions also has a presence in the public schools in Gadsden, Jefferson, and Wakulla counties with plans to expand to all schools within the next few years.

Is it just a fitness program?

Not entirely. The Champions program is based on principles and techniques developed by Titus Sports Academy and designed to improve a student’s gross motor skills, flexibility, posture, balance, and coordination using a long-term physical development approach to fitness. Students will be engaged in a fun, positive environment and as they become more confident with their physical skills they will become more likely to lead a healthy, active lifestyle.

Who started this program?

Capital Health Plan initiated a community-wide campaign to promote regular physical activity and healthy lifestyle choices through the Champions program. This program is supported through a collaborative partnership involving Capital Health Plan, Titus Sports Academy, Leon County Schools, World Class Schools of Leon County, Inc., and the Greater Tallahassee Chamber of Commerce.

What is the purpose of the program?

The partners involved in this community-wide initiative aim to:

• Promote and encourage the establishment of a lifestyle of regular physical activity and healthy choices through engaging children in regular fitness experiences with positive role models; and
• Offer children the opportunity to experience a healthy life today and tomorrow.

How do I enroll my student?

Enrollment forms are available at your student’s school with the CHP Champion School Coordinator. Please contact them for the program’s schedule at the school. Visit www.wcsleon.com for additional information and forms.

CHP Champions is administered by World Class Schools of Leon County, Inc.

What are the benefits of the program beyond improving health and fitness?

Research shows physical activity for students is positively correlated to higher academic achievement, less absenteeism, better focus in the classroom, and less disruptive behavior in school.

How are coaches selected for the program?

Coaches are recruited from FSU, FAMU and TCC from various fields of study. Many are seeking degrees in the fields of exercise science, physical education, and leisure and recreation management.

Who can participate?

Students in grades 3-12 are eligible to participate.

How are students motivated to participate and stay enrolled?

Great coaches will keep students motivated and build a strong program. During the coaches' training they are taught how to create a dynamic and engaging atmosphere and how to motivate students with positive reinforcement. Coaches are encouraged to build relationships with the students, get to know the students' names and be a good role model by always maintaining a professional look and manner and to teach good character by example.

Are students recognized for their effort?

• Most Improved – Demonstrates an effort to improve themselves (not in comparison to others).
• Best Technique – Demonstrates an effort to perform the workout using the techniques taught by the coaches.
• Best Effort – Demonstrates highest personal level of effort.
• Team Spirit – Demonstrates good sportsmanship through encouraging other students.
• CHP CHAMPION of the Week – demonstrates all of the above with a positive attitude.

How is the CHP CHAMPION of the Week chosen?

Coaches at each school nominate a student and agree as a group who to recognize for the week. They are looking for a student that is challenging themselves through the training process, shows self-discipline and respect for the coaches and other students.

How many coaches will be assigned to my school?

The number of coaches assigned to a school is determined by the number of students to enroll. The ratio of coaches to students will not exceed 1:15.

Is this program competitive?

The structure of this program is non-competitive because the focus is on individual improvement. The coaches challenge the students to do the best they can do, making everyone a winner.

Is this program designed for athletic students?

All children, with or without innate athletic abilities, benefit from this program because it is designed to meet students where they are in their physical development. The techniques used and the activities performed will help students progress through physical development stages at their own pace. Youth of all ages, physical skill levels and body types can participate and feel successful.

Does this program help students meet the national standards for physical education?

Yes, the program was designed to meet and exceed the national standards.