Zero-Hour Physical Education Initiative
Funds rural and tribal North Dakota schools to launch before-school, data-driven fitness programs aimed at improving student health, mental well-being, and academic performance.
Funder: North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2027 (Full application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: ~$70,000 per award; ~10 awards; up to 5 years of renewal possible, contingent on progress and funding
Summary: Supports rural and tribal North Dakota schools in launching before-school fitness programs to improve student health and academic outcomes.
Key Information: Forecasted opportunity—dates and details may shift; check program page for updates.
Description
This competitive funding opportunity, under North Dakota’s Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), is designed to help rural and tribal schools, regional education associations, and school consortiums implement “Zero-Hour” (before-school) physical education initiatives. The goal is to boost students’ physical health, cognitive performance, and academic engagement through structured, high-intensity, heart-rate-monitored exercise programs led by motivated instructors. The initiative emphasizes inclusivity, personal fitness, self-improvement, and data-driven outcomes, aiming to foster sustainable, health-promoting school environments.
Programs must incorporate seven core components: early morning scheduling, high-intensity workouts, heart rate monitoring, data tracking, inclusivity, a focus on self-improvement, and leadership by highly motivated instructors. The initiative targets improvements in student wellness, mental health, and school engagement.
