At Robertson Road Elementary, a weekly mile run has become a popular event among students and staff. The initiative began when Frederick Reynoso, now a fifth grader, suggested to Principal Guillermo López Romo that they do push-ups together. This idea soon expanded into a larger activity involving the whole school.
“I started running the mile with students,” López Romo said. “I invited teachers to use it as an incentive, something fun that got kids moving. Before long, not just a few students joined in; nearly the entire school did.”
Each Friday, teachers organize their classes for a group stretch before the run begins. Music plays as staff keep track of each student’s laps, encouraging friendly competition. The principal himself participates, and students are motivated to finish before him.
“At least one student finished before me and jogged straight over to let me know,” López Romo said.
Frederick Reynoso expressed surprise at being the inspiration for the weekly event. “I didn’t even know they started doing this because of me,” Frederick said. “That’s really cool!”
Fifth-grade teacher Kendra Shervington was among the first staff to join the activity. She noted that running in the morning helps her students focus during the school day.
“She was running right along with me,” López Romo said. “We keep each other motivated.”
López Romo highlighted that the run offers more than just physical benefits. “It’s a bonding experience,” he said. “It’s the only time everyone is out there together, moving, laughing, cheering each other on. It helps students release energy in a positive way, and they come back to class more focused and ready to learn.”
The Friday mile run has now become a tradition at Robertson Road Elementary, promoting fitness and a sense of community among students and staff.
