Students at Ishpeming Public Schools fill their plates as they participate in a healthy food tasting event Wednesday in an attempt to help encourage healthier lifestyles. (Journal photo by Lisa Bowers)

ISHPEMING — Fifth- and seventh-grade students at Ishpeming Public Schools participated in a healthy food tasting event Wednesday in an attempt to help encourage healthier lifestyles.

“Our food service director for Chartwells made all natural items for the kids,” said Ishpeming health teacher Ryan Reichel. “They were able to try two types of smoothies, … an assortment of fruits and veggies, plus a healthier version of fruit pizza.”

Reichel said the program was made possible by a grant through Project Healthy Schools and the Superior Health Foundation.

The funding allowed students to participate in healthy events and for the purchase of physical education equipment, he said.

“Having organizations like the Superior Health Foundation willing to provide funds to implement preventive education to our students is amazing,” Reichel said.

Reichel said it was his second year administering the grant, and that the Ishpeming school district will continue to search for grant opportunities that provide positive experiences for its students.

Ryan Jarvi can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 270. His email address is rjarvi@miningjournal.net.