Students at Eastgate Elementary get their bodies moving before the school day begins, thanks to an initiative spearheaded by physical education teacher Peggy Chappius.

Some mornings Chappius has students dancing, other times they run or do jumping jacks, but mostly they are just getting the blood flowing.

"We always do something fun," second-grader Emily Pizzini said.

The program in East Helena is part of a bigger movement called S'Cool Moves, a movement program based on research claiming that students are more effective learners if they first have some physical activity.

Chappius' involvement with the program at Eastgate was one of the reasons she was recently named physical education teacher of the year by the Montana Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, a state organization that works to support teachers in the field.

Ron Whitmoyer, East Helena superintendent, is fully supportive of the S'Cool Moves program and says Chappius is a perfect leader for the job.

The morning exercise keeps everyone nourished with oxygen, therefore learning can happen at higher levels, Whitmoyer said.

"She's a great teacher in our school district and has always been a very positive influence with students and staff," he said. "She's been instrumental in promoting a healthy lifestyle."

In her 24 years at the same job, Chappius says children really haven't changed all that much. She works hard at her job, and says young students are generally receptive to physical activity.

"It's easy to keep them engaged, but its hard work," she said. "I have to focus on trying to teach skills, safety and health knowledge but we make it as fun as we can to keep them focused."

She teaches body awareness and manipulative skills while working towards scope and sequence. By the end of year students have some basic skills to many sports.

Joe McMahon, Radley principal, has worked with Chappius for a number of years and is eager to sing her praises.

"First and foremost is her ability to connect with all kinds of children," said McMahon. "She quickly gains their trust because she cares about them and they sense that right away."

Trust and caring are key components to teaching, he said.

"They need to know we care in order for us to teach them," McMahon said. "She finds something to like and focus on with each student."

It's obvious Chappius loves her job, as her energy fills the school gymnasium. She said the biggest challenge she faces, but has the least control over, is getting young people to stay active outside her classroom.

"Since activity is a positive thing in my class I hope they take it out and become active citizens," she said. "I hope as they get older they remember activity is a good thing and become active citizens."

Sometimes it hard for observers to tell who is having more fun or working harder in physical education classes at Eastgate - Chappius or the students.

"It's class. It's not recess. But kids at this age are natural movers and so this is where they want to be," Chappius said.

Reporter Alana Listoe: 447-4081 or

alana.listoe@heleneair.com