The primary mission of the Marion County Hospital District (MCHD) is to improve the health of Marion County’s citizens.
As such, we developed Fitness and Nutrition in Schools (FANS)… an innovative chronic disease prevention program that incorporates increased physical fitness opportunities, improved nutrition and healthy lifestyle education for children in our school system. The goal is to reduce childhood obesity and to provide a healthy roadmap for children, parents and employees in the Marion County Public Schools.
MCPS is partnering with the MCHD through FANS by providing obesity prevention for the children of Marion County. FANS will provide supports and interventions for elementary PE programs to further increase student engagement and movement by educating students regarding the significance of being physically active and eating healthier. We implement FANS with fidelity by enhancing nutrition components, creating vigorous physical activity lessons, and campaigning for healthier snacking.
Working in collaboration with key personnel at Marion County Public Schools a three year plan was developed to build crop-producing state of the art greenhouses and gardens at all seven high schools, learning landscapes at the middle schools and raised beds at the elementary level. At each level children will be exposed to healthier lifestyle choices through hands on learning, taste tests, and social media campaigns.
MCHD will also assist with the development of FANS Clubs, comprised of students from each participating middle and high school with a mission to promote innovative health activities and to help disseminate information about student crops and healthy menu options. FANS clubs will also engage and educate residents about the initiative at local community events.
Participating Schools
High Schools
Vanguard High School
Michelle Shaw- Club Sponsor
Jeremy Rhoden- Horticulture Teacher
Chris Carlisle- Principal
Belleview High School
Andy Edwards- Horticulture Teacher
Virginia Campbell – Club Sponsor
Heather Guest- Principal
Trinity Catholic
Grace Daley – FANS Club Sponsor
Dr. Erika Wikstrom- Principal
Blessed Trinity Catholic School
Veronica Chancery – Club Sponsor
Megan Losito- Principal
Middle Schools
Ft. King Middle
Nicole Casuso- Sponsor – AgriScience teacher
Gary Smallridge -Principal
Belleview Middle
Molly Rowe- Agriscience teacher
Jill Cerny – Club Sponsor
Dr. Dion Gary- Principal
Osceola Middle
Chris Roy- Agricience teacher
Susan Mitchell – Club Sponsor
Matt Koff- Principal
Elementary Schools
Fort McCoy
Jennifer Fisher- Principal
Hammett Bowen
Traci Crawford -Principal
Marion Oaks
Lisa Dreher- Principal
Emerald Shores
Stacy Houston- Principal
Oakcrest Elementary
-Principal
Harbour View
Robert Hensel- Principal
Romeo
Suzette Parker- Principal
Meet The Team
Heather Wyman
MCHD Project Director FANS
Heather holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Sports Medicine and Exercise Physiology, with an emphasis on Biomechanics from Georgia State University in 1998. She also holds a certificate in cervical and spinal rehabilitation from the University of Florida’s Med Ex program and is a certified Nutrition Specialist with the American Academy of Sports Dietitians and Nutritionists. She has been working in the wellness and prevention field, specifically childhood obesity prevention for over 10 years.
Cheri Potter
FANS Coordinator with MCPS
Cheri holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education/Sport Management with a minor in Business from Florida State University. Her Master’s degree is in Educational Leadership from the American College of Education. Cheri has been an educator for MCPS since 2008 and has worked in various capacities as a teacher, dean, athletic director, and fitness instructor. Her previous work experiences were with the Orlando Magic, Florida State Athletics, and Florida Sports Foundation.
Contact Us
Additional Information
FAQ
How does my school get involved?
An administrator should contact Heather Wyman (MCHD) 352-622-3662 or Suzanne McGuire (MCPS) 352-671-6847 to set up a meeting to discuss the FANS project.
How do I join a FANS club?
Currently Vanguard High School is the only school to host a FANS club. By Jan 2018 we hope to have one in every high school. If you are interested in starting a FANS club please contact Heather Wyman @ 352-622-3662 or heather@mchdt.org
Stake Holders
Marion County Public Schools:
Dr. Heidi Maier Superintendent
Dr. Craig Ham Deputy Superintendent
Dr. Grantham Deputy Superintendent
Feed the Need Gardens
Rachelle Roper
Statewide Best Practices
Sarasota CountyAlachua CountyEdible Peace Patch- ST PetersburgNational Farm to School NetworkUSDA farm to School