Sherrard Elementary supervisor Karen Millichamp created a giant, colorful map of the United States to engage students in the shared goal of
walking a combined 1800 miles to Disneyland in California.

Sherrard Elementary students walked to Disney early this year. That is, they added the number of miles walked all together until they ‘reached Disneyland’ in California. The idea came from Sherrard Elementary supervisor Karen Millichamp. 

She said the purpose was to make recess fun - and get some exercise, “Get outside, get exercise, get a mask break and get some fresh air. We’re not able to do our organized games, too muddy in snow and ice. This is our way - if every kid gets to walk at least a mile a day, It’s a good way to get out and get some exercise.”

Millichamp said they were brainstorming ways to help kids who have a lot of energy, when she remembered something retired Sherrard school counselor, Sue Breiby did, “She had a ‘running club’, they would come up with different destinations. They would meet her in the gym and run laps. It was a good way to get some energy out right off the bat.”

She set a goal for the kids of 1800 miles combined - and at the end they had a Disney-themed outdoors bubble party.

Millichamp made a colorful map of the United States using an old projector. They hung it up on the wall in the gym where everyone could watch their progress with a marker she moved daily upon completing their walk.

Principal Casey Wyant said the kids loved it and it went well- after spending most winter recesses inside.

“It being a cool team goal - working on it collectively, so it’s more of a whole school effort rather than just individual efforts, so that’s a nice thing to see that collaboration as well,” said Wyant.

“Karen is a phenomenal human being just in general, but to have her on our staff we are incredibly fortunate. The creativity… overall being so genuine in her approach with the kiddos and wanting to help and always thinking outside of the box to see what she can bring into the school and what can it bring for everybody, for her to continually be bringing ideas to the table like that is quite remarkable.”

She also keeps students occupied during the before and after school programs.