As part of the Rural Health Transformation Program, $1.15 million has been awarded to the Alaska Department of Education & Early Development (DEED) to implement the Presidential Fitness Test in Alaska public schools. DEED will provide funding as needed to Alaska’s school districts for implementation. The Presidential Fitness Test was reestablished by Executive Order 14327 and provides age-appropriate fitness goals for school children. Children who complete the goals for their age-group can receive an achievement award signed by President Donald Trump.
Research continues to demonstrate a strong connection between student health and academic success. Students who are physically active and healthy are more likely to attend school regularly, remain engaged in learning, demonstrate improved concentration, and achieve higher academic outcomes. Healthy students are better prepared to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
“The passage of this executive order allows Alaskan students to refocus on the benefits of health and well-being,” said Governor Mike Dunleavy. “With the assistance of the Departments of Health and Education and Early Development, I am proud to move this initiative forward and help better the future of health of Alaska.”
Through the Rural Health Transformation Program, DEED will work collaboratively with school districts to reestablish student fitness assessments aligned with the federal Presidential Physical Fitness Test while accounting for the unique needs of Alaska’s diverse communities. Education awards will help support districts by providing resources for physical fitness assessment equipment and professional development for educators.
The initial phase of this work will focus on building statewide capacity, conducting needs assessments, and providing districts with the resources and training necessary to successfully implement Presidential Physical Fitness testing beginning in the 2027–28 school year.
“This is an exciting step in returning to a priority of health and fitness of our student population,” said Department of Education and Early Development Commissioner Deena Bishop. “With this emphasis placed back on well-being, our students will be afforded the opportunity to both learn and live well.”
“Healthier communities start with healthy kids,” said Department of Health Commissioner Heidi Hedberg. “The Presidential Fitness Test gives schools another tool to encourage students to move more and have fun with physical activities. Our goals are to support kids and their families in building healthy habits that will stick with them for life.”
DEED looks forward to working alongside educators, families, community partners, and the Department of Health to ensure every Alaska student has the opportunity to develop healthy lifestyles that contribute to academic achievement, personal well-being, and lifelong success.
The Rural Health Transformation Project is supported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award totaling $272,174,855.72 with 100 percent funded by CMS/HHS.
Readers can view the Presidential Fitness Test here: Presidential Physical Fitness Test – The White House
Press release provided by Alaska DEED.
