Sam Houston Elementary Holds First Health, Wellness Fair

by Tony Vindell/LFN

A health and wellness fair was held at Sam Houston Elementary and, judging by the outpour of enthusiasm seen at the event, everybody attending it had a blast.

The school’s student body participated in a 1 mile run in front of the building, others tossed bean bags, joined a Zumbathon and munched on healthy goodies provided by the school and about a dozen vendors who introduced other products free of ingredients like gluten and sugar that might pose health risks to those consuming them.

The fair, held Saturday, April 21 at the school on North Beddoes Road, was set up with the aim to promote healthy eating habits and fitness.

“We are promoting what we call a whole child,” Maria Rodriguez, the school principal, said. “It’s not just the academic status of a student but also his or her health.”

She said the school, which has a population of 517 students and 32 teachers, has not had a fair like this one before and will do so from now on.

“I used to be a counselor,” Rodriguez said, “and have seen other schools holding their own health fairs, so why not us?”

Ida Prado, the school assistant principal, could not hide her enthusiasm.

“This is awesome,” she said while going from place to place. “Technology is taking over but we want our kids to be healthy.”

Several students interviewed during the fair said they were glad to have the opportunity to enjoy a Saturday morning in such a way.

Roxana Zamora, one of the many parents who attended the fair, described the event as something good for everybody.

First responders with South Texas Emergency, La Feria Volunteer Fire Department and local police officers were on hand.

Among the fair participants were Tropical Café, Girl Of All Trades, Su Clinica, Herbalife, The Neighborhood Doctor, Advocare, Sweet Blessings, Physician Assistants and others.