KINGFIELD — A districtwide push, with help from a community partner, could reap big benefits for Regional School Unit 58 students, the board of directors was told this week.

Kingfield Elementary School Principal Kim Ramharter and Molly Clark, program coordinator at the Healthy Community Coalition of Greater Franklin County, addressed the board Tuesday on the “5-2-1-0 Go!” program offered in the district.

Let’s Go! is a nationally recognized program that operates statewide, with headquarters at the Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital in Portland. The goal is to raise awareness of the problems that develop from childhood obesity, whether from lack of exercise or poor nutrition or both.

Ramharter and Clark explained that the 5-2-1-0 concept:

• Encourages children to eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables;

• Limits recreational screen time to no more than two hours;

• Encourages one hour or more of physical activity every day; and

• Asks children to forego sugary drinks and take in more water.

RSU 58, for many years, has offered the Winter Kids program, which gets students outside for three types of activities of their choice.

“If you have never gone to watch the kids in the ski-skate program, I urge you to do that,” Ramharter told the board.

Students also are challenged to walk or run 50 miles over an agreed-upon period of time. They become more invested in reaching their goals and supporting each other.

Each school has a team leader, called a champion, who helps track students’ progress and gets parents, administrators and school personnel involved. One of the most difficult challenges is rethinking the ways both staff and students are rewarded or celebrate.

“It is hard to give up those cupcakes,” Ramharter said, prompting an appreciative laugh from the audience.

Principal Felecia Pease said the Strong Elementary School offers students a salad bar for lunch, and it has been a hit.

“Students tell me they really like cucumbers,” she said.

In other matters, Superintendent Sue Pratt reported the district is at the half-way point of the school year and has 55 percent of its budget left.

She also explained a three-year plan to repave the parking lots at the Phillips Elementary School.

Paving contractor Bruce Manzer of Anson said an investment of $100,000 the first year and $75,000 for two additional years would complete the project without the district borrowing money.

“We can’t be afraid to start this,” Pratt said. “We’ve got to start somewhere.”

Other Phillips projects include removing a fuel tank on the grounds and refinishing the gymnasium floor.

RSU 58 directors will invite selectmen in Avon, Phillips, Strong and Kingfield to meet with them Feb. 16 meeting at Mt. Abram High School to discuss some of the budget priorities and state and federal funding uncertainties.

The board also recognized Mt. Abram High School teacher and coach Darren Allen as Employee of the Month. He has engaged and mentored students and is a great asset to the district, board member Sharon Dudley said.