My name is Reid Maulsby, and I am a fifth-grade student at Ravenna Public Schools. Some of my favorite foods are ribs and steak, and my favorite candy is Nerds Gummy Clusters. This fall, I ran for Nebraska Kid Governor. Although I did not win the election, I was honored to be selected as a cabinet member for the Nebraska Kid Governor for 2026.
My platform focuses on health and wellness for elementary students. I want to help students begin their school day in a healthy and positive way. My idea was to create a morning walking club in the school gym before classes begin. Through my research, I learned that walking benefits students in three important ways. First, it provides exercise to help students stay healthy. Second, it helps wake up both our bodies and our minds so we are ready to learn. Finally, it helps students release extra energy so they can focus better during the school day.
While developing my three-point plan, I focused on education, collaboration, and action. I worked closely with teachers and school administration to put the program in place. This included finding volunteers and establishing clear expectations for students. I also created posters for the gym to explain the rules and expectations of the walking club.
In addition, I spoke to all 192 students during our morning opening to explain the program and how it would work. The walking club officially began on November 17. Since then, students have walked a total of 30 miles in our morning walking club. I am proud of the positive impact this program has had on our school community and the healthy habits it is helping students build.