Foundation Catholic Education St. Maarten advances Health-Focused Initiatives
On Wednesday, November 27, 2024, Stichting EGO and Foundation Catholic Education reaffirmed its commitment to fostering healthy lifestyles among children in Sint Maarten by introducing innovative activities under its “Healthy Schools Healthy Community” projects. These programs aim to create dynamic, health-conscious environments for students and educators.
The Sr. Regina School was chosen as a pilot for Health Innovation
12 Medical students and Dr. Natalie Humphrey, Assistant Dean of Community Engagement and Associate Professor of Psychology at the American University of the Caribbean (AUC) School of Medicine, introduced a comprehensive health activities manual and video series at Sr. Regina School. Selected as the pilot school for this initiative, Sr. Regina School has embraced this data-driven approach to improving child health.
The materials developed using insights from the BLOC test—a physical health tracking system—and the Child Monitor survey completed by parents, offer actionable steps for enhancing students’ physical well-being. In collaboration with AUC, Stichting EGO launched three cornerstone activities:
- Radio/YouTube Gym
This initiative, inspired by Japan’s morning exercise programs, features locally produced videos of exercise routines and health clips involving students, teachers, and community role models. The videos are designed to energize students between classes and promote physical activity in fun and engaging ways. Schools across Sint Maarten have been encouraged to participate by recording their own movement routines and energizers.
- Island Explorer Hike
Integrating physical activity with education, the Island Explorer Hike takes students on a Causeway trail journey enhanced with QR code-based assignments. This interactive activity fosters a love for movement and a deeper understanding of healthy living. A recent hike with Sr. Regina School and the Simpson Bay After-School program left participants inspired and eager for more such experiences. The QR codes will remain on the trail to encourage children to hike with their families. Schools are also encouraged to use the activities for their field trips.
- Healthy Afternoon School
On October 16, students at Sr. Regina School engaged in hands-on health activities led by AUC students. These stations explored various aspects of healthy living, including nutrition and hydration. Students in groups 4, 7, and 8 participated in the first YouTube Gym activity, viewed informational videos on healthy eating, and celebrated the results of the Island Explorer hike.
Mrs. Aventurin-Hodge, Director of Foundation Catholic Education St. Maarten, opened the event with a thought-provoking discussion about how a healthy lifestyle contributes to stress-free and fulfilling lives. The event concluded with the presentation of a manual for rotational health and physical activities by Stichting EGO President Ria Uiterloo. These activities will now be rolled out across all Catholic primary schools, Sr. Marie Laurence Community school and Stichting EGO’s after-school programs.
BLOC Testing: Transforming Curriculum and Teacher Training
A pivotal aspect of the initiative is integrating BLOC testing into SKOS school curricula. Developed in collaboration with the Arnhem and Nijmegen University of Applied Sciences (HAN), the BLOC test assesses motor skills and physical abilities, equipping educators with data to drive targeted interventions.
PE teachers and student care coordinators participated in training sessions led by HAN experts Mark de Niet and Jasper de Greef. Over three sessions, participants gained insights into motor learning theory, interpreting BLOC test results, and implementing strategies to enhance children’s motor skills such as balance, rhythm, and spatial awareness. By integrating these learnings, SKOS schools are set to enhance their physical education programs significantly.
Wellness Day: A Celebration of Health and Community
In October the Foundation for Catholic Education St. Maarten hosted a Wellness Day for its entire staff. The event featured vibrant health-oriented activities and served as a platform for filming videos as part of Stichting EGO’s ongoing projects. Supported by R4CR, these efforts are grounded in data collected through the BLOC test and Child Monitor surveys.
The Wellness Day demonstrated the importance of integrating community-driven health initiatives into educational settings, fostering an environment of collaboration and engagement.
Looking Ahead: Building on Momentum
As the “Healthy Schools Healthy Community” projects progress, Stichting EGO remains focused on expanding its impact. Juriaan Otto, Project Leader for the initiative, emphasized the need for continued support from local government and partnerships with educational institutions.
“Through education and community engagement, we aim to promote lasting, positive change in the lives of children on Sint Maarten,” Otto stated.
With data-driven insights and community collaboration at its core, the Healthy Schools initiative is paving the way for a healthier, more active future for Sint Maarten’s youth.
See videos on https://www.youtube.com/@HSAC-