McKenzie Middle School Hosts Health Fair

McKenzie Middle School’s annual Health Fair was Friday, March 6, inside the school’s gymnasium. Healthcare professionals and emergency first responders visited the school, bridging the gap between health education and fun.

This year, 15 organizations hosted booths: LeBonheur Children’s Hospital, the Tennessee Department of Health’s Tennessee Tobacco Quit Line, The Refinery, Dynamix, Carroll County Library, The Ronald McDonald House, McKenzie Police Department, Hospital Wing, Hometown Health Clinic, Baptist Memorial Hospital – Carroll County, Carroll County Prevention Coalition, PhippsCare, Beating Hearts Help Center, The University of Tennessee at Martin Nursing and Carey Counseling Center. McKenzie Middle School staff also had a table about personal hygiene.

School Nurse Gail Edwards said the annual health fair is important in educating students on different facets of health — from the effects of energy drinks to information on mental health counseling. The McKenzie Police Department let students try Drunk Busters Goggles, which simulate the effects of impairment. Students also had the chance to go outside and see the Hospital Wing’s parked helicopter.

Several people from the visiting organizations bragged on the students’ behaviors.

Autumn Brown, a representative from LeBonheur Children’s Hospital, said, “They’re very well-mannered. They actually do listen. They’re participating really well.”

Students attended the health fair during their rotation periods, traveling in groups to each booth for the duration of the school period.