The annual Steps for Schools walking challenge is putting $47,500 into Idaho schools, thanks to the efforts of state legislators and constitutional officers who participated in the Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health program that promotes the importance of physical activity.

Steps for Schools took place throughout February, and 64 participants reached one of the step goals to earn funds for the school or school district of their choice. The 2023 Steps for Schools champions earned $500 for their school if they walked at least 140,000 steps (an average of 5,000 per day) or $1,000 if they walked at least 280,000 steps (an average of 10,000 per day).

The schools can use those funds to purchase equipment or sponsor programming that encourages children to be active.

“The Steps for Schools walking challenge promotes the importance of being physically active and allows the legislators to give back to schools in their districts to promote youth health,” said Kendra Witt-Doyle, Executive Director, Blue Cross of Idaho Foundation for Health. “We’re grateful that so many of Idaho’s legislators and constitutional officers made the effort to participate in Steps for Schools during the busy legislative schedule and helped a local school or school district in the process.”

Since the Steps for Schools walking challenge launched in 2015, more than $265,000 has been awarded to Idaho schools on behalf of participating legislators. A complete list of the 64 participants who earned funds for a school is on the next page.