This event aimed to promote and advance school-based physical activity initiatives while addressing broader challenges in promoting physical activity among children, particularly in underserved communities. Experts and stakeholders gathered to explore evidence-based solutions, best practices, and policy frameworks aimed at increasing physical activity participation in schools. This discussion also spotlighted after-school programs like Futbolito for All, launched in Houston with the potential for expansion across Texas. This initiative was made possible through the collaboration of Galena Park ISD, Dynamo & Dash Charities, UTHealth Houston, and Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy.
This event was co-sponsored by the Baker Institute Center for Health Policy and UTHealth Houston. It was an off-site event and was held at the Levy Conference Room, 7255 Helix Park Ave, Houston, TX 77030.
Panel: Policy and Surveillance: Shaping the Future of School-Based Physical Activity
and Physical Education
The panel will examine how culturally relevant programs like Futbolito for All can boost health and physical activity among Latino children and how they can be scaled to other underserved areas. Panelists will also explore how policy and surveillance frameworks can develop and expand school-based physical activity programs, ensuring they are sustainable and impactful. They will highlight preliminary findings on the program’s feasibility, adaptability and effectiveness in real-world settings.
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Agenda
| 4:30 pm | Registration & Reception |
| 4:45 pm | Opening RemarksSandra McKay, M.D., FAAP |
| 4:50 pm | PresentationIntroductions by: Mary Aitken M.D., M.P.H., FAAP, Professor and Chair, Department of Pediatrics, UTHealth Houston Remarks by: Shreela Sharma, Ph.D., R.D., L.D., Professor, Vice-Chair, Epidemiology, and Director, Center for Health Equity Research, UTHealth Houston Andrea Ramirez Varela, Ph.D., M.D., M.P.H. Eric Boerwinkle, Ph.D. |
| 5:30 pm | KeynoteCommissioner Adrian Garcia |
| 5:55 pm | Break |
| 6:05 pm | Panel — Policy and Surveillance: Shaping the Future of School-Based Physical Activity |
| 6:50 pm | Closing RemarksAndrea Ramirez Varela, M.D., M.P.H., Ph.D. Christopher Kulesza, Ph.D. |