On Friday, March 22, 2019, the Hubbard Exempted Village School District hosted Highway to Health, a free health fair for its entire school staff. The professional learning opportunity, centered around health and wellness, included vendors, demonstrations and health screenings.
Congressman Tim Ryan and former Ohio Senator Joe Schiavoni kicked off the day-long health fair. Schiavoni shared with the crowd the importance of being well, specifically being the best version of yourself. He said when you’re the best version of yourself it can bring out best in others, particularly students. Congressman Ryan, who has authored several health-related books, spoke about meditation and mindfulness. The Congressman, who avidly practices the two, says studies show the ability to intentionally pay attention to the present helps not only to clear your mind, but also helps lower stress, improve your mood, lower your blood pressure and lower inflammation.
During the afternoon portion of the health fair, members of the Mahoning Valley Law Enforcement Task Force guided teachers through an illicit drug identification course. The task force allowed teachers and staff to view and become more familiar with illicit drug in an effort to be more aware of what to lookout for in school and in life.