Rene Rodrigue

Rodrigue's "School to Life Wellness Program" is designed to improve the lifetime wellness skills of middle school students with disabilities through physical activity and fitness. This program uses aerobic fitness equipment at the school in the Adaptive Physical Education Program and is reinforced with visits to a local fitness facility. Through helping students master various physical activities, the program encourages fitness and the development of motor skills. Psychological benefits associated with this elevated physical activity include an increase in mental focus, self-esteem, self-confidence and positive body image, and a decrease in stress, anxiety and depression.