At Chocowinity Primary School in North Carolina, Coach Bryce List is helping his students fall in love with movement one lap at a time. Using Marathon Kids to track progress has transformed how his runners see their potential—each scan becomes a small victory that fuels their confidence.

One student’s journey stands out most: a young girl who fell in love with running through the program, began entering local 5Ks on her own, and continues to run through middle school. Her passion has inspired classmates to lace up and join her, proving how one spark can light an entire community.

This season, Coach List set a collective goal for his club—630 miles, the distance from their school to Nashville, TN. Each week, students cheer each other on as they “get closer” to their destination, encouraging peers to finish laps together and celebrate every milestone. Families are joining in too, tracking miles and even participating in local races. What started as an after-school activity has become a full community movement—uniting students, parents, and teachers through the joy of running.

Valerie Richardson, a classroom teacher at Cedar Ridge Elementary, co-leads the “Ridge Runners” Marathon Kids after-school club. As a classroom teacher, she’s seen firsthand how the program helps her students grow, not just in fitness, but in confidence, motivation, and behavior. 

Runners push past their goals, cheer each other on at local 5Ks, and even inspire friendly sibling rivalries. The best part? The stronger connections Valerie builds with her students through running are showing up in the classroom, too, with better communication and improved behavior. 

Several students have even earned medals at community races, and local running clubs are stepping in to help cheer them on. It’s a ripple effect of positivity, one lap at a time.

Since launching their run club at KIPP Academy of Innovation in East LA, Coach Ivan Lopez has seen powerful transformations in his middle schoolers.

“Many of our runners started with little belief in their ability to complete a 5K, let alone train for a half-marathon,” he shared. One student who had never participated in organized sports is now setting personal records and encouraging others to join.

Another, once afraid of long-distance running, now celebrates each milestone with pride, thanks to the support of his teammates and consistent training.

The camaraderie is just as impactful as the mileage. During one training run, a few students noticed a teammate falling behind. Instead of pushing ahead, they circled back and finished the run beside him.

"That kind of teamwork is what this club is all about,” said Coach Lopez. Beyond the track, students are forming friendships across grade levels, families are becoming more involved, and a stronger culture of health and connection is growing in the community.

Coach Kirk Tower is making a huge impact at Sarah Dooley School for Autism in Vermont by using the self-paced Marathon Kids program that meets each student where they are.

Coach Tower shared a heartwarming story: “The joy on [my student] Noah's face as he scans his QR code is priceless. It motivates him to run and engage in aerobic activities.” This self-paced approach empowers every student to feel successful and achieve personal milestones.

Staff participation has further elevated the program, creating a strong sense of teamwork and support. By integrating technology with physical activity, students are taking ownership of their fitness journeys in meaningful ways. This program is not just about running—it’s about building confidence, fostering a love for movement, and celebrating every win, big or small.

Thank you to Coach Tower for inspiring your school community and helping every student shine!