PRIMARY SCHOOL
When Chartiers Valley Primary School’ s Kids of Steel program kicks off its 12th year on January 21, it will do so with the same energy, creativity, and sense of purpose that have helped it grow into one of the largest and most recognizable elementary running programs in Western Pennsylvania.
Kids of Steel, an awardwinning initiative managed by P3R, the organization behind the Pittsburgh Marathon, is designed to motivate children and families to move together and embrace healthy habits. While the program exists in more than 300 schools and community organizations across the region, Chartiers Valley Primary School has distinguished itself through a uniquely joyful and studentcentered approach— one that blends fitness, fun, and
Landon Bagnall.
PHOTO BY CORRINE DURISKO. community pride.
What began more than a decade ago with just a couple dozen participants has steadily grown into a weekly tradition embraced by more than 160 kindergarten through second-grade students. Each Wednesday morning before the school day begins, the primary school comes alive as students arrive early, ready to run, walk, and cheer one another on. Under the
guidance of longtime adviser Caroline Shenal and mom Melissa Shena.
PHOTO BY CORRINE DURISKO. and teacher Shelley Territ, the program has evolved into an experience that students eagerly anticipate week after week.
A hallmark of the Chartiers Valley program is its weekly theme. Each practice features a playful concept, often paired with themed music, that encourages students to dress up, move to the beat, and view exercise as something exciting rather than obligatory. Over
The 2026 CVPS Kids of Steel team, photo by Megan Dwinga.
A Tradition of Movement, Motivation, and Heart: Kids of Steel at Chartiers Valley Primary School
the years, these themes have expanded to include decorations, costumes, and even inflatables, transforming ordinary mornings into celebrations of movement.
Motivation comes in another tangible form: weekly charms. Students earn charms for attending practices and clip them onto lanyards, creating a colorful, visual record of their mileage and commitment. For young runners, the charms serve not only as incentives but also as a source of pride as a physical reminder of goals met and progress made.
This distinctive blend of creativity and consistency has earned Chartiers Valley Primary School recognition beyond its own hallways. Memorabilia from the school’ s Kids of Steel program are featured in a locker room-style exhibit at the Heinz History Center’ s Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum. The exhibit highlights the running gear, charms, shoes, and medal of former student William Coperich from the 2023 Kids Marathon, offering museum visitors a glimpse into the impact of youth fitness programs.
The inclusion underscored the broader significance of Kids of Steel programs. Kids of Steel is part of the Kids Marathon, which is now the largest in the country. Museum leaders emphasized that the exhibit was designed to help children“ see themselves” in the story of sports history, recognizing everyday athletes whose dedication and joy exemplify the spirit of the program.
At Chartiers Valley, that spirit is deeply connected to community and service. For several years, families of participating students have come together to honor Shelley Territ’ s leadership and commitment by making a donation in her name to the GBS Foundation. Territ
Shelley Territ and William Coperich.
PHOTO BY RON COPERICH was diagnosed with Guillain-Barré syndrome in 2017, and the annual donation serves as both a thank-you and a lesson for students about empathy, resilience, and giving back.
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