Video: Columbus School District Teachers Drop Pounds to Inspire Students

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COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) — Sometimes the best way to teach is to lead by example. Dozens of Columbus school teachers are taking that to heart.

In January, 21 teams at 10 different facilities took on a weight-loss challenge.

Columbus teachers are dropping the Lb’s

“Great, great, great, a lot less weight, less person to carry around,” says P.E. Teacher Thomas Adams.

So far, the 21 teams have lost more than 600 pounds. Not only is their health improving but they also are setting a good example for the young minds they guide every day.

“I think it’s very important to eat healthy and getting the water in that you need, the kids see me losing weight. You know that’s my positive, good motivation for them, ” says ICC Teacher Katie Gasto- Roach.

“As a physical education instructor, I wanted to make sure that the students that I was teaching knew about the healthy lifestyle, knew that it was possible to achieve it, ” says Adams.

The friendly competition also has improved teamwork and cooperation among the groups.

“We text each other, we go check on each other in the morning at school, just see how it’s going, and how the weekend went. Just keep each other encouraged, ” says Gaston-Roach.

Through their journey, they’ve learned some tips that will keep them healthy even after the challenge is over.

“Nothing but cardio. A lot of running, walking, jogging, whatever you can do to become active. Definitely eating less, especially portion control,” says Adams.

Control that is paying off for these teachers in and out of the classroom.

The challenge ends March 6. The winners will be announced March 16.

They get to share a cash prize.