30 Henrico schools earn Sports Backers' 'Active RVA' designation

Thirty Henrico County schools have been named 2018 Active RVA Fit Schools, recognizing their success at incorporating physical activity into their curricula.

The certification is given by Richmond nonprofit Sports Backers as part of its Active RVA initiative to promote fitness in the Richmond area. To qualify, a school must show it has made fitness part of its culture through programs and infrastructure, and show measurable results in increasing physical activity among its students, staff and local community.

"Studies show that physical activity leads to improved academic performance," said Benita Turner, HCPS specialist for health, physical education and driver education. "I'm proud of the commitment from everyone in the school division who made this happen - HCPS leaders, health and physical education teachers, principals and classroom teachers. Together we are bringing physical activity, physical education, wellness integration and brain breaks into the classroom."

The certified HCPS schools for 2018 are:

• Carver Elementary School
• Crestview Elementary School
• Jackson Davis Elementary School
• Dumbarton Elementary School
• Echo Lake Elementary School
• Fair Oaks Elementary School
• Gayton Elementary School
• Glen Allen Elementary School
• Hermitage High School
• Holladay Elementary School
• Johnson Elementary School
• Kaechele Elementary School
• Lakeside Elementary School
• Maybeury Elementary School
• Mehfoud Elementary School
• Montrose Elementary School
• Moody Middle School
• New Bridge Learning Center
• Nuckols Farm Elementary School
• Pinchbeck Elementary School
• Ridge Elementary School
• Rivers Edge Elementary School
• Shady Grove Elementary School
• Short Pump Elementary School
• Springfield Elementary School
• Three Chopt Elementary School
• Trevvett Elementary School
• Tuckahoe Middle School
• Twin Hickory Elementary School
• Varina High School

Representatives of the schools were recognized March 1 at an awards program.