At South Atlanta High School, a healthy body is just as important as a healthy mind. That’s why the school decided to host the inaugural South Atlanta Cluster 5K Run/Walk and Health Fair on Nov. 9. Proceeds will benefit South Atlanta’s Athletics Department and its HOSA – Future Health Professionals team.
“Building community is essential as we push forward with our efforts to weave social and emotional learning throughout the day, the year and into each and every home and business within our cluster,” said Shanna Miles, South Atlanta High School media specialist and 5K coordinator. “Schools feed young minds, but we can’t forget about our bodies. According to the American Diabetes Association, someone is diagnosed with Diabetes every 17 seconds. People who are Black or Latinx are at higher risk of that diagnosis. Those are the parents, grandparents and students we serve. This 5K is an opportunity for fun, fellowship, and finding solutions.”
HOSA – Future Health Professionals, formerly known as Health Occupations Students of America, is an international student organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Health Science Education (HSE) Division of ACTE. HOSA’s two-fold mission is to promote career opportunities in the health care industry and to enhance the delivery of quality health care to all people.
At the Nov. 9 event, South Atlanta High School’s senior HOSA members and nursing supervisors will conduct blood pressure, blood sugar, height/weight and vision screenings. Certified staff will also provide mental health consultations. In addition, representatives from PeachCare and Georgia’s Medicaid program will answer questions about the state’s wellness programs.
“The students, faculty, staff and community of South Atlanta High School are excited to participate in the upcoming 5K Race and Health Fair,” said Dr. Patricia Ford, principal. “Participating in the walk/run will promote lifelong fitness habits, which builds stronger muscles/bones, reduces obesity-related conditions (such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and certain cancers), improves attention and focus and also allows students to manage stress and anxiety. We wanted to create an opportunity that will allow students and their families to spend more time together by training together, and we also wanted to motivate students in a positive way. I look forward to seeing you there!”
The South Atlanta Cluster 5K Run/Walk and Health Fair will take place Nov. 9 at South Atlanta High School, located at 800 Hutchens Road SE, Atlanta, GA 30354. For additional information about the event, please contact Shanna Miles at 404-802-5005 or sxmiles@atlanta.k12.ga.us.
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