September 1, 2006
    Dear District Superintendent:
    As you begin another new school year, we extend greetings on behalf of the Florida Departments
    of Health and Education.
    The Florida Legislature and Governor Bush recognize that schools play a critical role in
    promoting student health, preventing childhood obesity, and combating problems associated with
    poor nutrition and physical inactivity. To formalize and encourage this role, Florida passed SB
    772 supporting Federal legislation (P.L. 108 – 265). We applaud the numerous school districts
    who have taken this opportunity to develop strong policies and interventions related to school
    food services, nutrition education, physical activity, and other food-related activities.
    To further support school efforts in promoting wellness, Action for Healthy Kids, a non-profit
    organization formed to address childhood obesity issues in schools, in partnership with the U.S.
    Department of Health and Human Services, and working with the U.S. Departments of
    Agriculture and Education and other leading organizations, has developed Game On! The
    Ultimate Wellness Challenge. The challenge will inform, motivate, and mobilize support for
    school wellness. Game On! The Ultimate Wellness Challenge is an all-inclusive, fun and FREE
    event for 5th-8th grade students, parents, teachers, administrators, and others to celebrate coming
    back to school with a fresh approach. Although the event is targeted for 5th-8th grade students, it
    is easily adapted for older and younger students. The Game On! event integrates nutrition,
    physical activity, and learning through a series of activity stations that will stimulate minds and
    bodies. Participation by adults and children is rewarded – not performance. You will find more
    information about Game On! at http://actionforhealthykids.org/special_GameOn.php.
    We encourage your schools to host their own local Game On! event to celebrate the beginning of
    a healthy 2006-2007 school year.
    Sincerely,
    Sincerely,
    M. Rony François, M.D., M.S.P.H., Ph.D.
    John L. Winn
    Secretary, Department of Health
    Commissioner, Department of Education
    MRF/JLW/cbv

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