Our Cause
All proceeds from RUN! GEEK! RUN! will go directly to support Move2Learn.
“I feel like just kind of refreshed…like you’re restarting a computer, so then I can learn better.” 5th grader at Charles Barrett Elementary School, ACPS
That’s how this student described how she feels after she gets her body moving and blood flowing. That’s why we do what we do!
What Do We Do and Who Are We?
Move2Learn is an award-winning 501(c)(3) that works to level the learning field for marginalized and underserved students in Alexandria City Public Schools. While all students benefit from movement with purpose throughout the school day, our focus is on students and school communities that lack the same access to tools that spark learning.
Why? Because studies show that physical activity primes the brain so it’s ready, able and willing to learn. That’s why we work with ACPS educators and students in all 18 schools, K-12.
We’re the only organization in the region that offers robust programming and equipment to keep students moving before, during and after school. Our expertise in the field makes us a first stop and trusted resource for educators.
Our programs are free to all students and take place at the schools so getting to and from them is a non issue. We also make sure everyone has what they need to participate. In other words, we remove barriers to getting in movement throughout the day to ensure all students can reach their highest potential. Because we use movement to transform learning.
Who We Serve and Our Affiliations
Our community includes ACPS students, teachers, administrators and parents/guardians representing all schools, ages, abilities and backgrounds. M2L is a proud member of the School Health Advisory Board; Resilience Alexandria: Inform. Support. Elevate, also known as RAISE; and the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce.
Our Programming
Active Seating and Stationary Bikes
In 2022, we’ve purchased, assembled and delivered nearly 2,000 pieces of active seating to 145 classrooms. Equipment like under-desk cycles, balance balls, accordion and wobble stools and fidget bands is now on nearly every ACHS campus, including Chance for Change Academy and the Northern Virginia Juvenile Detention Center School, and serving thousands of students, Currently, dozens of teachers are on a waiting list for one of our signature packages, requests we urgently want to fill once we have the funds. The equipment is pricey, but totally worth it for the benefit of the kids.
In libraries, counseling offices and/or special education classrooms throughout ACPS, students are able to hop on one of the 80 stationary bikes we’ve purchased and installed to read, ride and reset.
Social, Emotional and Academic Learning
M2L writes SEAL lessons for educators and collaborates closely with ACPS teachers to carry out the lessons to teach the mind-body connection.
Called “Moving to Feel & Learn Your Best,” it’s taught to all students K-12 and is part of a growing movement to help kids understand and name what they’re feeling. We come with a personalized action plan to help them cope. For some, the trauma they’ve experienced – whatever it may be – is a real barrier to being successful, so SEAL can be life changing for them.
Before-, During- and After-School Programming
Through M2L’s Equity Action Plan & Advisory Council, we also offer Out-of-School Programming to students. M2L removes barriers for participation, meeting students where they are, so anyone who wants to can participate at no cost!
We purchase equipment and necessities like shoes, sports bras, etc. In 2022, we’re offering 13 programs on six campuses. That means approximately 350 students have free and accessible before-, during- or after-school options for healthy, fun activities two to three times each week.
Clubs include jump roping, walking and running, yoga/meditation, dance, boxing, archery and lacrosse. The verdict is in and kids and clubs and activities are a winner! With the ongoing support of our generous donors and community, we hope to continue to run these programs into the spring and beyond!
Other programming we offer includes Teacher Toolkits, Movement Challenges and Professional Developments to teachers and staff to help them integrate movement into their school day.
Visit move2learn.org and follow Move2Learn on social media to learn more!
Contact Information
Move2Learn
107 S West Street, #545
Alexandria, VA 22314
https://www.move2learn.org/
