StartSmart Pilot

Sekweha, OSLI, Carleton University and Northland School Division worked together to develop the StartSmart program. The program is based on leading-edge research on the relationship between vigorous physical activity and brain development.

The program recognizes that cultural connections can support students’ engagement in school. The program is delivered to students from kindergarten to Grade 4 attending Father R. Perin School in Janvier.

The Sekweha youth team and community volunteers deliver the StartSmart program in accordance with community wishes and values. The school’s principal and staff, the local school board and the Northland School Division support the pilot project.

StartSmart was launched in September 2010 and operates for a half-hour each day. Students are led through a vigorous exercise routine, provided with a nutritious snack, and engaged in a values discussion. The cultural-based values component includes “Thought of the Day” and is founded in the values expressed in the community’s Seven Sacred Teachings — respect, love, honesty, truth, bravery, wisdom and humility.

StartSmart is monitored and evaluated for ongoing program development. Once the pilot is complete, it will be expanded to the entire school, which includes kindergarten to Grade 9. All grades currently receive the StartSmart nutritious snack.