Magnet vs. Neighborhood - Part 1: Cutting the Fat

09/19/2011

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For those who do not know I recently made the transition from more neighborhood-type schools in West Philadelphia to a magnet school local south of Center City. It has been an interesting change and one that I want to examine as I work there. Last weekend I was chatting with a friend of mine about the differences and we came up with a short list. This series is going to be diving into that list to explore what it might mean. First up on the list: obesity.

Until I had that conversation, I barely even thought about anything physical relating to my new students aside from the fact that they have more diverse skin tones than schools in West Philadelphia. But, when I thought more deeply about their physical shapes, I noted one major thing: these magnet kids are thinner!

There are a host of reasons why this particular group of kids might have fewer obese members but I think it is definitely a reflection on their backgrounds. Perhaps their families don't eat at McDonald's as often because they a) can afford not to, b) understand that saturated fat can be deadly, or c) they exercise more. Or it could be many other reasons, too. Maybe the 4 flights of stairs students have to climb in order to get to my room!

Whatever the reason is, it has an effect. The students don't tire as easily I've noticed (even though they get to school an hour before my students last year). They are able to concentrate and focus more quickly. They more consistently participate in sports teams. Or, to be honest, these effects could have nothing to do with their weight.

But when childhood obesity is focused on by the First Lady we should take a moment's pause to wonder why it is that neighborhood schools have fatter kids than magnet schools. And what we should do about it.

Comments

J. C.

09/20/2011 06:03

It's funny that you posted about the difference in weight. I was just thinking about that the other day. I have a few heavier students now, but I don't have any students (nor have I seen any) who are unable to climb one flight of stairs without being winded. It's a stark difference and I agree with your guesses about why your (our) new set of students may be slimmer. I just have to add one more potential guess... I have yet to see a corner store bag filled solely with chips, candy, and soda. I'm sure they exist, but not on an all day every day basis.

Maddy

09/20/2011 17:14

I wonder also whether the things you're noticing have a relationship to whether your students eat breakfast and what they eat at that time. They might be coming from families that can afford 3 meals a day rather than 2 and can give their kids the benefit of starting the day with breakfast that's more than just sugar. Does your school have free breakfast/lunch available? Did the previous ones and did the kids take advantage of them?

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Author

I am a math teacher in the School District of Philadelphia. I infuse technology and real-world problems into my curriculum in order to prepare my students for the future. I would love for people in Philadelphia to recognize we teachers can't do it alone. If you don't believe me, come visit my classroom!