The seventh annual WinterKids Winter Games wrapped up this month with 16 schools competing statewide to win $17,750 for their schools. The Winter Games is a four-week series of challenges in outdoor physical activity, nutrition, family engagement, and winter carnival.

All competitive track schools received a cash prize based on how they finished. In addition, 60 schools (57 in Maine, two in New Hampshire, and one in Indiana) participated as part of the Play-Along track. This non-competitive track allows schools to play along at their own pace, according to a news release from Julie Mulkern, WinterKids executive director.

All told, 10,000 children in Maine participated in the WinterKids Winter Games, between the competitive and play-along versions of the program.

2024 WinterKids Winter Games Top Winning Schools:

The Bronze Medal winner receiving a $1,500 cash prize was West Bath School in West Bath.

The Silver Medal winner awarded a $3,000 cash prize was Rangeley Lakes Regional School in Rangeley.

the Gold Medal winner was awarded a $5,000 was Williams-Cone School in Topsham.

Schools placing fourth through 10th earned $750 each, while schools placing 11th through 16th earned $500. These funds may be used at the discretion of the school, though WinterKids hopes to see the money support increased student health and outdoor physical activity.

“This program is so much more than four weeks of competition. It has been an incredible catalyst for family involvement, local community support, and teachers making their schools healthier with outdoor learning.” said Mulkern.

Embracing outdoor learning helps to counteract the negative effects of excessive screen time — particularly for those in elementary school. WinterKids provides resources for both teachers and parents to get their kids outside and active, including the WinterKids Learn Outside Guide, the WinterKids App, and downloadable activities at winterkids.org.

 

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