A ceremony and other activities will be held Wednesday at Cielo Vista Charter School in Palm Springs to celebrate the facility’s recognition as the first Blue Zones Project-approved school in the area.
“Being named the first Blue Zones Project approved school in Palm Springs is an incredible honor for our entire school community,” Juanita Perezchica, principal of the charter school, said in a statement. “Our staff, students and families have worked hard to create a school environment where well-being, leadership and learning go hand-in-hand. Partnering with Blue Zones Project allows us to take this work even further by expanding opportunities for our students to grow healthy, confident and connected to their community.”
The festivities will start at 7:15 a.m. Wednesday with a “walking school bus,” a community walk with children accompanied by parents and educators, from Demuth Park to the school at 650 Paseo Dorotea. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will follow at 7:45 a.m., followed by a “Healthy Carnival” on campus at 8 a.m.
The carnival will feature outdoor games, crafts and activities from Children’s Discovery Museum of the Desert and a pop-up farmers market by Aziz Farms.
Officials said the school was recognized for its leadership in creating a culture of health and well-being.
In partnership with Blue Zones Project Palm Springs, school officials will create and expand wellness initiatives for student health and learning, including enhancing the school’s gardening program, a monthly “walking school bus” and expanding programming that supports students’ well-being.
“Programs like their school garden and the Walking School Bus create meaningful opportunities for students and families to engage in healthy habits that support both academic and personal success,” Palm Springs Unified School District Superintendent Marcus Funchess said.
Palm Springs Mayor Naomi Soto said the school is “setting an inspiring example for schools across the city.”
“When schools, families and community partners come together around well-being, we create healthier neighborhoods and brighter futures for our children,” she said.