Friday, November 16, 2012

Students Speak Out On Health Report Cards

The teachers think it's great, and so do the health professionals -- but what about the kids?


St. Stephen High School students receiving their Health Report Cards this week after being tested in various areas like cholesterol, blood glucose, blood pressure, and body mass, as well as self-esteem and mental health.

Grade 10 student William MacKnight tells Tide News the program is a positive thing for the school. He says, "I think it's a good idea, a lot of students can use the eye-opener and it's a very good opportunity to get to know where we are at."

Grade 10 student Lexi Brisley tells Tide News she thinks some students will ignore the interventions being offered by the school, but she won't be. She says, "I think it's a really good idea because a lot of people just don't know what is going on with their bodies, whether they are actually healthy or not, and this project really gives you the right idea."

Grade 11 student Alesha Baxter tells Tide News she was tested last year and was shocked to see what her results looked like. She says she decided to take the matter into her own hands and change her lifestyle. Baxter says over the course of the summer, she cut out bad foods from her diet, and became involved in many more physical activities. She says she was able to lose around 30 lbs. She says, "It was something I thought I needed to do to make myself happier. I've noticed a big change in my confidence and self-esteem, and I feel a lot happier these days."

Dr. Sohrab Lutchmedial -- who oversaw the project -- says it's not about comparing the statistics of one class to another, but comparing the progress of one student throughout their high school years.

( Picture: Grade 10 Student Lexi Brisley )