Green Bay Reporter

The Unified School District of De Pere has announced that Dickinson Elementary was selected for the NFL PLAY 60 Day of Play, receiving resources aimed at promoting movement and heart-health education.

According to a press release, Dickinson Elementary in De Pere was chosen as one of 35 schools nationwide to receive support from the American Heart Association (AHA) and the National Football League (NFL) for an NFL PLAY 60 Day of Play event on April 23, ahead of the NFL Draft in Green Bay. The school was also one of three to receive a $2,500 grant to enhance its activities. All participating schools received an interactive kit containing various sports equipment and resources for heart-health education. Additionally, Dickinson won a $10,000 gym makeover through Finn's Mission, part of the AHA's Kids Heart Challenge, with final plans set for the coming months.

"These resources transformed our school into an active play zone, ensuring every child could engage in fun, physical heart-healthy activities," says Principal Luke Herlache. "Students had the opportunity to join in games, challenges and exercises while learning about heart health. The experience aimed to make health and wellbeing fun and to inspire students to take charge of their health."

Dickinson Elementary is a K-4 school located in De Pere, enrolling approximately 520 students. Most students live within walking distance. The school emphasizes partnerships between home and school to enhance learning experiences. The staff focuses on creating a welcoming environment that supports academic, social, emotional, and behavioral development. The school follows Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS) with core values such as safety, respect, responsibility, and care. It also features the district's first certified therapy dog named Charlee.

The Unified School District of De Pere serves around 4,300 students from diverse backgrounds across De Pere and surrounding areas including parts of six towns and students from neighboring districts. According to its website, the district emphasizes preparing students for success by offering a comprehensive curriculum and a range of exploratory options aimed at meeting students' unique educational needs.