BlueCross Helps Middle Schools Transform PE

Shape the State application period opens March 27; 20 schools will win grants valued at $10,000 each

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn.--()--Tennessee middle schools looking to boost their health and wellness programs can now apply for a new PE curriculum – one that includes training for teachers and equipment for students – through the Shape the State® program of the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Health Foundation.

Now in its seventh year, the program has awarded 120 Shape the State grants, valued at $10,000 each, to Tennessee schools serving middle grades students. Twenty more schools will be selected this year. School representatives can apply on the Better Tennessee website through May 1, with grants awarded by the end of the month.

“Shape the State grants have helped 120 schools make physical education more fun and more effective for their students,” said Chelsea Johnson, interim director of community relations and foundations for BlueCross. “Beginning today, we’re searching for the next 20 schools that want to recharge their PE programs.”

In addition to supplying the acclaimed SPARK physical education curriculum, teacher training and equipment, schools earning the grants get an additional $1,000 to spend at their discretion on their health, nutrition and wellness programs.

About BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Health Foundation, Inc.

The BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Health Foundation, Inc. (THF) was established in December, 2003 as a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation organized to promote the philanthropic mission of BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee. THF awards grants focused on high-impact initiatives across the state, which promote healthy lifestyle choices and help control health care costs for all Tennessee residents. Working with civic and economic partners, THF is dedicated to the support of research, innovative programs and creative approaches to improve the health and quality of life of Tennesseans for generations to come.

Contacts

BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Health Foundation, Inc.
Mary Danielson, 423-535-7694

Release Summary

Tennessee middle schools looking to boost their health and wellness programs can now apply for a new PE curriculum through the Shape the State® program of the BCBST Health Foundation.

Contacts

BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Health Foundation, Inc.
Mary Danielson, 423-535-7694