Fridley Public Schools is only one of two schools systems in MN that has been awarded the Carol M. White Physical Education Program (PEP) grant by the U.S. Department of Education. The award, which totals $431,661, will be used for the district’s Fit for Learning Fit for Life initiative that will benefit student wellness. The school board accepted the award at its August 21, 2012 meeting.

The primary goal of the Fridley Public Schools’ Fit for Learning Fit for Life student initiative is to address identified programmatic health, wellness, and physical education weakness and institute programs and activities using school-based and community supports for students in Grades K-12 that will enable them to become physically fit, eat a healthy diet, and establish positive habits for long healthy lifestyle.

PEP (Carol M. White Physical Education Program) is a competitive grant program managed by the U.S. Department of Education. PEP grants are awarded to schools and community based organizations that provide innovative P.E. and physical activity programs for America's youth.  This year, the U.S. Department of Education awarded 56 grants totaling $27 million to school districts and community organizations who plan to implement comprehensive physical fitness and nutrition programs for their students.