National School Backpack Awareness Day

WHEREAS, more than 79 million students in the United States carry school backpacks; and

WHEREAS, about 55 percent of students carry a backpack that is heavier than the recommended guideline of 15 percent of the student’s body weight; and

WHEREAS, in a study on the effect of backpack education on student behavior and health, nearly eight out of every ten middle school students who changed how they loaded and wore their backpacks reported less pain and strain in their backs, necks and shoulders; and

WHEREAS, the way backpacks are worn affects the health of students; the height of the backpack should extend from approximately two inches below the shoulder blades to waist level or slightly about the waist; and it is recommended that individuals always wear the backpack on both shoulders so the weight is evenly distributed; and

WHEREAS, on the third Wednesday of each September, the American Occupational Therapy Association celebrates National School Backpack Awareness Day; and

WHEREAS, on September 21, 2011, occupational therapy practitioners, educators and students will help others "Live Life To Its Fullest" by avoiding the pain and injury that can come from heavy backpacks and bags:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim September 21, 2011, as

National School Backpack Awareness Day

in the State of Alabama.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 20th day of September 2011.

                        

Governor Robert Bentley