PUPIL FITNESS FAILS TO MEET STANDARDS.

Byline: Carol Rock Staff Writer

SANTA CLARITA - As thousands of families sit down for a sumptuous feast today, state officials are alarmed by recent scores on the California Physical Fitness Report.

Test results for 10,141 students in fifth, seventh and ninth grades in the Hart, Newhall, Saugus, Sulphur Springs and Castaic districts show that overall less than 30 percent of those tested achieved the six fitness standards of aerobic capacity, body composition, abdominal strength, trunk extension strength, upper body strength and flexibility.

Local results generally proved to be higher in two categories than statewide averages. In Santa Clarita area schools, 34 percent of fifth-graders, 25 percent of seventh-graders and 29 percent of all ninth-graders achieved all six standards. These compare with statewide averages of 25 percent of fifth-graders, 29 percent of seventh-graders and 26 percent of ninth-graders.

Aerobic capacity is considered the most important because of recent medical research linking good aerobic capacity with a reduction in many health problems. Statewide, only half of the students tested met the healthy fitness standards; Santa Clarita valley students scored much higher with 69 percent of students in the three grades achieving the standard.

Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell said the statewide results were ``unacceptable.''

``We have a long way to go to eradicate the silent epidemic of childhood obesity and poor nutritional health,'' he said.

O'Connell took advantage of the results to kick off his second annual Supertintendent's Challenge to promote healthy eating and exercise. A coordinated effort between the California Department of Education and the California Task Force on Youth and Workplace Wellness, the program recognizes school districts that address the issues of physical fitness and nutritional health.

``Each school district that takes up the challenge by providing healthier meals, nutrition education, physical activity programs and quality physical education experiences will receive recognition from the California Department of Education and the state Senate,'' he said.

O'Connell said that the most exemplary districts may also received cash awards of up to $10,000, based on available funds.

Carol Rock, [phone]

carol.rock(at)dailynews.com