FCCF supports new Learning Readiness PE program at RMS

Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at 11:30 AM

By Staff report

The Fulton County Community Foundation (FCCF) is proud to support a new initiative at Rochester Middle School that blends physical fitness with academic success. A $5,500 grant has been awarded to help launch a Learning Readiness Physical Education (LRPE) program at the school.

The LRPE program emphasizes the strong connection between physical activity and improved cognitive performance. With the funding, RMS will purchase a classroom set of 30 heart rate monitors, allowing every student in PE class to engage in activities designed to elevate heart rates for at least 20 minutes – a benchmark shown to boost memory, focus and overall learning.

"Studies show that physical fitness plays a key role in student success," said RMS physical education teacher Bryce Roberts, who applied for the grants. "This equipment will help ensure all of my students can participate and benefit from the program. I want to thank the Northern Indiana Community Foundation for providing RMS with the opportunity to promote lifelong physical fitness in my PE classes. This is going to benefit so many students."

This grant was supported by the foundation’s Brent L. Blacketor Memorial Fund, thanks to the generosity of local donors committed to providing support for local charitable public health organizations serving Fulton County.

To learn more about how to support programs like this or apply for future grants, visit www.nicf.org or contact the foundation at 574-223-2227.

Pictured above, from left to right: Rochester Middle School Principal Cassie Murphy, students Wyatt Beck, Carson Banks, Carter Overmyer, Gil Newton and Vincent McKee, RMS physical education teacher Bryce Roberts and Fulton County Community Foundation Director of Development Brian Johnson.