Once a week, after school, she leads the Jefferson Run/Walk Club that now consists of about 500 students! It started three years ago when she set out to do something with students that would help them get exercise. "I wanted to do something that had a positive impact on students. Since I have been a life-long runner, this seemed to be a natural event," she states.

The first year she was hoping to have about 30 kids show up. She was pleasantly surprised when about 120 students turned out! Currently there are 500 students, along with parents and teachers, involved in the club. In the one-half hour event, students cover 2 ½ to 3 miles as they run and/or walk.

In the June issue of Schooldesigner, we will hear what Kim would do to improve the exterior of her school. After all, well-designed schools can help fight childhood obesity.

Also running ahead of us on fighting childhood obesity and setting an example for others is Richmond, Va.-based BCWH Architects. The firm has worked with school board members from across the state to promote fitness in a unique way. During the annual VSBA (Virginia School Boards Association) Conference, many attendees participate in a 5K Run/Walk promoting physical activity in schools. BCWH encourages board members to use this as an opportunity to challenge the schools within their area to join in a physical activity at the same time. Schools participate in a similar physical activity on the same date as the conference's 5K trek. For example, students may run a mile, complete an obstacle course, or have a race.

If you have a great outdoor fitness example, send it to us. We will try to include it in May's issue-even if we are running a little late! Even late, we can still catch up on fighting childhood obesity.