IN Hampton Spring 2014 | Page 37

dads are required to get their kids to school in time for “zero hour,” because it happens earlier than if the students arrived by their usual school bus. Space is limited since the pilot program was designed to accommodate 50 students. Students and teachers are finding the program to be a success. “The students have been extremely positive about the program,” says Marlynn Lux, assistant principal at Hampton Middle School. “Specifically, they have made comments to their teachers that they enjoy the class. Overall, they leave the gym very energetic and wide awake to start their day.” Given the positive response, the school has decided to keep the program running until this semester ends. There is the possibility of eventually expanding the program to the high school or to the elementary schools. “After the pilot is complete, we will review the measurable indicators such as student academic performance, attendance, standardized test scores and student perception and make recommendations,” Lux says. “If this does turn out to be a very positive experience with positive academic outcomes, I could see this being successfully implemented at the high school level.” ■ Hampton | Spring 2014 | icmags.com 35