As a fourth grade teacher with almost two decades of elementary experience, I believe when teachers incorporate positive sustained strategies to increase daily activity, mindfulness, and thoughtful food choices, together everyone achieves more. While playing volleyball at Penn State, I was fortunate not only to learn the physical and mental benefits of physical activity, but also the importance of making healthy food choices a part of your daily life.   As a child with undiagnosed learning disabilities, school was extremely difficult for me.  I can understand how students must feel when their needs aren’t being met. By addressing the needs of the whole child to ensure students are: healthy, safe, engaged, supported, and challenged, we can provide students valuable lifelong health and wellness skills to empower them and take charge of their learning and their life.   After my dad’s triple heart bypass surgery five years ago, I knew it was vital to show him and others how easy it is to lead a healthier life. Competing on seasons six and seven of NBC’s T.V. show American Ninja Warrior as the “Eduninja” reinforced my commitment to empowering teachers, students, and their families to pursue their goals of becoming healthier. Whether through the #EduNinjaChallenge or changing your daily habits in and out of the classroom, join us by creating a movement of health and wellness at your school. Thanks for inspiring healthy students!