How Sullivan 180 and LMCS have collaborated to create a healthier school environment

By Demi Budd, LMCS Student

This article appears in the April issue of Manor Ink.

Sullivan 180, a nonprofit formed to support the well-being and health of Sullivan County residents, has implemented its mission to bring “change by degrees” through an initiative known as the Empowering a Healthier Generation program.

The nonprofit has granted LMCS the “Healthier Generation School Grant” to assist with furthering healthy programs at school. Since receiving the grant, LMCS’ Wellness Committee has been busy implementing creative options that encourage health and wellness for the Livingston Manor community.

Members of the LMCS Wellness Committee, Ms. Erlwein and Ms. Carlson, graciously accepted an invitation to discuss specifics of the committee’s efforts.

Our conversation began with the blender bike initiative. The blender bike is exactly what it sounds like—students pedal on a bike which has a blender attached to the back. Their movement blends fruits together, creating a smoothie they can enjoy.

Next, we discussed the Catskill Edible Garden which has contributed to LMCS’ wellness by providing fresh fruits and vegetables for the cafeteria staff to make dishes with. It has also provided educational opportunities for classrooms.

“Elementary students started the seeds, planted them, and then the older kids then took over the gardens. Mr. Rogers uses the food that’s harvested for our school lunches,” explained Ms. Carlson.

Additionally, two new classroom formats have been introduced to LMCS. The first, a walking classroom, provides students with earbuds and pre-produced lessons which they listen to while walking outside. There are nearly 200 lessons to choose from that are suitable for grades 4 through 12. Secondly, an outdoor classroom with stumps and benches for students to sit on, provides various learning materials in a waterproof bin for use.

Another initiative to get students moving has been three multiple sensory paths which line the hallways of the elementary wings. This spring, two more will be placed outside, targeting older students.

The committee intends to install a small greenhouse over the community garden and hopes to open a community track in the future.

“I would love to do something that involves the community too. It would be nice to figure out a way to make the whole community healthier—not just the school” said Ms. Erlwein.

The committee is open to suggestions and they encourage people to reach out. For all inquiries, contact Ms. Erlwein at calley.erlwein@lmcs.us, Ms. Carlson at rene.carlson@lmcs.us, or Mr. Eggleton (head of the committee) at david.eggleton@lmcs.us.