Altoona School District staff and city officials faced off on Wednesday, June 4 as they participated in a kickball game at Altoona Hobbs Sports Center. Intended as friendly competition during the last few days of the school year, the game was one of many district-wide activities created to encourage healthy lifestyles. Much of these efforts can be traced back to the district’s fiscal manager Kathy Dahl, who, along with her Wellness Committee, is working to encourage a more active community in Altoona.

   “I participated in the district versus city kickball games and not only was it a physical activity, it brought us together,” said Altoona Middle School principal Jack Wagener. “(Dahl) is kind of an unsung hero in these efforts and I think they have made a difference. “
   Dahl sends weekly reminders to district officials to promote healthy activities, and the staff is getting more involved with every effort they make.
   “Her e-mails, reminders, and activity offerings always serve as a motivator,” Wagener said. “It’s like fishing. Kathy puts the bait out there… you just might bite on what’s best for you. If you don’t throw the bait out there, you won’t catch anything.”
   One of Dahl’s successful endeavors was a “Biggest Loser” program that she organized for district faculty. Those involved received a point every time they exercised for 20 minutes, lost one pound, or drank 32 ounces of water in a day.
   “I needed something like this myself,” said Dahl. “I’m not a health nut. I was interested in having something more structured.”
   Her programs are now growing and changing to serve the district’s needs. For instance, Dahl arranged for an instructor from Eau Claire’s Highland Fitness Center to come teach a class on-site at the district. Once a week during the school year, the instructor taught a Yogalates class, which combines pilates and yoga.
   Next year, Dahl hopes to continue to provide and promote additional healthy activities.
   “I am very supportive of what she is doing and has done,” said Wagener. “There can be only one outcome: healthier and happier adults.”