Fifth graders in Matthew Carroll’s class at Blue Bell Elementary School are getting active to help end malnutrition for children around the world through the United Nations International Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

With the support of their school principal, Dr. Concetta Lupo, these fifth graders are using the UNICEF’s Kid Power Bands to track their daily steps to earn Kid Power Points. When the students earn enough Kid Power Points, UNICEF delivers lifesaving nutrition to children around the world on behalf of the students.

The class took it upon themselves to take on this challenge to help children just like them. “We wanted to be a part of the Kid Power Bands program to help malnourished children because they should have the same opportunities and experiences. Everyone deserves a chance to reach their full potential,” says Vanessa K.

As a result of participating in this challenge,  the fifth graders are consciously thinking about how to be more active at recess and at home in order  to help collect Kid Power Points. Outside of the classroom, they keep a chart of their steps and Kid Power Points. It serves as a daily reminder to stay active and keep a focus on their goal.  “Our classroom has a goal – that is to make sure no other children in the world are malnourished. If there still someone in the world that is malnourished, we are not [done yet],” says Elan M.  Since the class began this program in March, they have already helped one child, Kumba, receive the food she needs to grow up healthy.

These fifth graders are also motivating other classrooms in their school to get involved in their community in any way to help others. “They are a very goal-oriented class and I’m proud of them for already thinking like global citizens as fifth graders,” says Matthew Carroll.