WASHINGTON – Three Maine schools – Pen Bay Christian School in Rockland, Leeds Central School and the Cape Elizabeth Middle School – have been awarded the 2000-2001 State Champion Award as part of the President’s Challenge on Physical Activity and Fitness.

State Champion Awards are presented by the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports to schools that serve as role models in their commitment to physical fitness. Selected schools are those with the highest number of students ages 6 to 17 scoring at or above the 85th percentile on the President’s Challenge. Schools compete in one of three categories based on the number of students enrolled.

The President’s Challenge has been available to the nation’s schools since 1958. A range of fitness levels is offered to allow children, including those with disabilities or little interest in sports and competition, to earn recognition for physical fitness. The five assessment areas of the President’s Challenge measure are: a 1-mile walk-run for heart and lung endurance; curl-ups for abdominal strength and endurance; a “sit and reach” stretch for muscular flexibility; pull-ups for upper body strength and endurance; and a shuttle for agility.

“All of Maine can be proud of these State Champion Schools. Their teachers and students have demonstrated a commitment to physical fitness that serves as a role model for others,” said U.S. Rep. John Baldacci in announcing the grant.