Central Elementary students combine movement and learning through Walking Classroom program

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

GRAVES COUNTY, Ky., (KBSI) — Students at Central Elementary are combining physical activity with classroom instruction through a national program known as “The Walking Classroom.”

The evidence-based program encourages students to walk while listening to educational podcast-style lessons preloaded onto handheld devices known as WalkKits. Each 20-minute session includes a health literacy message and character-building themes woven into lessons aligned with state standards for grades 3 through 8.

Fifth-grade teacher Kaylin Reed recently used the program in her social studies class while covering the Boston Massacre. As students walked outdoors, they listened to a lesson detailing the March 5, 1770, confrontation between American colonists and British soldiers, an event that helped build momentum toward the American Revolution.

School officials say the program is designed to promote both physical movement and academic engagement, citing research that links exercise to improved cognitive function and focus. In addition to the audio lessons, the program provides discussion questions, quizzes and vocabulary activities.

Educators say the approach supports various learning styles and may benefit students who struggle with attention-related challenges.