Let’s Activ8 the future of learning at GMSD!

GMSD to Pilot Activ8 Program, Empowering Teachers and Students with Innovative Learning Tools

GMSD to Pilot Activ8 Program, Empowering Teachers and Students with Innovative Learning Tools

The Germantown Municipal School District (GMSD) is thrilled to unveil an exciting new initiative that merges technology, creativity, and active learning. Through the district’s Department of Coordinated School Health, GMSD will pilot the Activ8 Program, a state-of-the-art educational tool designed to enrich classroom experiences. This pilot program will empower both teachers and students by bringing personalized, engaging activities to life. As part of this initiative, one elementary school teacher from Dogwood, Farmington, Forest Hill, and Riverdale Elementary Schools will be selected to implement Activ8 within their classrooms.

 

What is Activ8?

Activ8 is more than just a program—it’s a transformative approach to education. The program combines two key components:

• Activ8 Boxes: These activity kits are packed with hands-on, standards-aligned games and exercises. They cater to a variety of scenarios, from structured classroom lessons to informal playtime activities during recess or lunch breaks. Each box can support up to 100 participants, making it ideal for diverse group settings. By integrating play and education, Activ8 fosters teamwork, problem-solving skills, and creativity.

• PLAI App: The PLAI App leverages artificial intelligence to personalize activities for each classroom. In less than 30 seconds, teachers can generate tailored games and exercises that adapt to their students’ ages, learning objectives, and available resources. The app ensures that every activity aligns with educational goals while maintaining a focus on fun and engagement. Teachers can also gather feedback through the app, refining activities to suit their classes better over time.

Together, the Activ8 Boxes and PLAI App create an ecosystem of learning that blends active play with innovative technology, ensuring that students stay engaged and motivated.

 

How GMSD Will Pilot Activ8

To launch this program, the Department of Coordinated School Health will select one teacher from each of the participating elementary schools to test Activ8. These teachers will receive a complete Activ8 kit and full access to the PLAI App. Over the course of the pilot, they will integrate these tools into their daily routines, using them to:

• Reinforce core curriculum concepts through interactive, hands-on activities.

• Provide students with structured play opportunities that build social-emotional skills.

• Offer feedback to improve the program’s effectiveness and adaptability.

At the conclusion of the pilot, the district will evaluate the program’s success based on teacher feedback, student engagement, and learning outcomes. The ultimate goal is to expand Activ8 to more classrooms, enriching the educational experience across GMSD.

 

Aligning with Tennessee’s Physical Activity Requirements

In Tennessee, elementary school students are required to engage in at least 130 minutes of physical activity per week, a mandate designed to promote health and combat sedentary behaviors. The Activ8 program is uniquely positioned to help GMSD schools meet and exceed this requirement. By incorporating movement-based activities into the classroom, recess, and structured playtimes, Activ8 ensures students stay active while also reinforcing academic concepts.

 

The Importance of Physical Activity Breaks

Research consistently highlights the critical role physical activity plays in student well-being and academic performance. Studies show that incorporating short physical activity breaks throughout the school day can improve memory retention, focus, and overall learning outcomes. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), students who participate in regular physical activity perform better academically, showing higher test scores, improved classroom behavior, and enhanced cognitive functions such as concentration and problem-solving skills.

Physical activity stimulates the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports brain health and enhances learning and memory. A 2018 study published in the Journal of Pediatrics found that just 20 minutes of moderate exercise can significantly improve a child’s ability to focus and process information.

The Activ8 program’s hands-on activities not only help students achieve their physical activity requirements but also integrate movement into the learning process, making it easier for children to retain information while staying physically engaged.

 

Why Activ8?

The Activ8 program addresses several challenges faced by today’s educators and students:

• For Students: The program reduces screen time by encouraging active play and teamwork. Its hands-on approach nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and collaborative skills. By aligning with educational standards, Activ8 ensures that students are learning while having fun.

• For Teachers: Time is a precious resource, and the PLAI App helps teachers save it by swiftly generating personalized activities. The program’s flexibility also allows educators to adapt activities to the specific needs of their classrooms, making it a practical and powerful teaching aid.

“This program aligns perfectly with our mission to prioritize both the physical and mental well-being of our students,” said a representative from the Department of Coordinated School Health. “Activ8 not only inspires learning but also creates opportunities for teachers to innovate and students to thrive.”

Building Excitement Across GMSD

The pilot program is a testament to GMSD’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and holistic education. By introducing Activ8, the district is paving the way for a more dynamic, engaging, and personalized approach to learning.

Parents, students, and teachers alike can look forward to updates as the pilot unfolds. The selected teachers will serve as trailblazers, showcasing how Activ8 can transform classrooms and ignite a passion for learning. Success stories and insights from this pilot will help shape the program’s future implementation across GMSD.

For more information about the Activ8 program and its benefits, visit unboxactiv8.com.

 

Let’s Activ8 the future of learning at GMSD!