SLV Health Donates Pedometers to Support Innovative Walking Fitness Class at Ortega Middle School

San Luis Valley Health is proud to support Ortega Middle School by donating pedometers for a new Walking Fitness class led by PE teacher Taylor O’Keefe this fall.

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The course offers students a fresh approach to physical education, focusing on lifelong wellness rather than traditional team sports. By incorporating pedometers, students can track their daily steps, monitor progress, and set personalized fitness goals.

“This unit is great for all students, especially the ones who don’t love traditional sports,” said O’Keefe. “It allows every student to find success while learning about the benefits of movement.”

The Walking Fitness class fulfills PE credit requirements while also integrating academics. Students will learn to monitor their heart rate and use math skills to analyze their pedometer data, gaining a deeper understanding of how consistent activity improves health over time.

Supporting programs like this reflects SLV Health’s mission to encourage healthy lifestyles in our community. “We’re excited to see students engaging in fitness in fun, accessible, and educational ways,” said Coach O’Keefe.