Grateful for grants

To the editor:

On behalf of the Sutton Elementary School and Glacier View School communities, I want to thank the Mat-Su Health Foundation for the $1,000 School Health, Safety, Nutrition and Fitness grants and $5,000 Health Schools Grants awarded to those schools for the 2010-2011 school year.

The $1,000 MSHF grants funded Red Cross babysitter training for Sutton fifth-graders and swimming lessons to Glacier View elementary students.

The $5,000 Healthy Schools Grants will enhance physical education programs at both schools. Sutton and Glacier View will also present evening nutrition programs for students and their families. Sutton will create a Frisbee golf program and host a community Frisbee golf event, and Glacier View will expand its existing cross-country ski program and provide avalanche training.

Each school created a wellness council of staff, parents and community members that participated in the grant application process and will oversee activities specified in the grants. The councils will continue to integrate health and wellness into school activities on an ongoing basis.

Thanks again to the Mat-Su Health Foundation for its continued work toward a healthier community.

Chris VanCleve

Chickaloon