A. W. Blanton Elementary School has always promoted its main values — friendship, excellence, courage and knowledge – generating impact in the community.
To continue to provide the meaning of those values to the Blanton Bruins, Freddie Harris, a physical education coach for the school, and also a personal fitness instructor, had the idea of sharing daily workout videos with the students each morning, through his YouTube Channel.
The videos are shared with Blanton students and families on the school’s Facebook page to motivate everyone – kids and adults – to get up and move.
Coach Harris knows the importance of staying physically active. In the current situation of students having to engage in at-home learning due to the coronavirus, he wanted to help his students stay active. “I figured the workout videos would be a safe way for students to stay active while at home,” the coach said. “It also is a fun way to stay connected with my students. I’m thankful for all the positive feedback received about helping others with my workouts, and this is what’s inspiring me to continue putting out workout options.”
The coach has posted seven videos, each of them unique because he adds a touch of humor, making the workouts more engaging for his students. No gym or special equipment is needed to do the workouts, so there are no excuses! He also recommends that his students stay active by moving, while social distancing, or dancing.
“Coach Harris’ videos have kept all of us connected and they hold us accountable to do daily exercises,” said Principal Alicia Iwasko. “With some parents, it has become a competition to see who does more rounds! The biggest impact we see is that he created a platform for families to feel comfortable in doing the exercises together. We are very proud of Coach Harris and the impact he generates in our community.”
Thank you, Coach Harris, for helping us in Making a Difference Together!
