No new schools planned

Chesterfield County Public Schools is helping children fight for their lives. With estimates from the U.S. government stating that one in five, or 20 percent, of America's youth are suffering from childhood obesity, the school has found a way to emphasize health to its students.

One such program--"a grapple a day keeps the doctor away"--encourages students of Falling Creek Elementary to choose a grapple, or "grape-le," as their daily snack of choice. The grapple is an apple soaked in grape juice, and according to one Chesterfield student, "It's really healthy."

Part of administrator Karen Rinehart's health initiatives are to encourage students to carry fruits and veggies with them to class three days per week. "Lets get them thinking about a snack as being healthy," said Rinehart.

Chippenham Hospital doctor Doug Cutter had this to say: "If you can get them started now and make this a habit and not a chore, I mean that's the whole thing." Part of Dr. Cutter's statement referenced the fruits and veggies program while he also admitted to being impressed by the Greenfield Elementary School's running program.

Posted in: America's youth,Chesterfield County,Chippenham Hospital,Karen Rinehart's