Steps for Schools promote activity, supports schools

A state legislative session is more than just voting on legislation. A typical day for an Idaho legislator includes committee meetings, constituent correspondence, discussing legislation and evening receptions. These commitments quickly add up, making it potentially difficult for legislators and constitutional officers to get the necessary physical activity that supports their own health. 

The Steps for Schools walking challenge provides these officials with motivation to get moving this month. More than half of Idaho’s legislators and five constitutional officers are participating in Steps for Schools, an annual program of the Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health that promotes the importance of physical activity while supporting public schools. Participants walk to try to reach step goals to earn funding for a public school. 

Among those taking part from District 1 is Rep. Mark Sauter, R-Sandpoint. State officials taking part include Lt. Gov. Scott Bedke, State Superintendent of Education Debbie Critchfield, State Treasurer Julie Ellsworth, Secretary of State Phil McGrane and State Controller Brandon Woolf.

Steps for Schools, now in its 12th year, has provided more than $350,000 to Idaho schools since 2015. 

“Being physically active is one of the best things people can do for their own health,” said Courtney Frost, executive director, Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health. “Steps for Schools reminds these busy elected officials of the importance of walking. We appreciate everyone that is participating and look forward to seeing them reach their step goals to support the public school or district of their choice.” 

Participants who walk an average of 5,000 steps a day during February earn $500 for the school or district. Those who average 10,000 steps a day earn $1,000 for the school or district. 

Steps for Schools has four primary goals: 

• Remind lawmakers to think about children’s health issues 

• Highlight our lawmakers as positive role models for children 

• Create awareness about health issues in Idaho 

• Promote child wellness throughout the state 

The Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health, Inc., is a nonprofit charitable foundation established in 2001 by Blue Cross of Idaho. The foundation is dedicated to giving back to Idaho and addressing the root causes that impact health.

For more information, go online to bcidahofoundation.org.