Irving ISD has made history as the first school district in Texas to launch a new Fitness Court® at Nimitz High School, marking a major milestone in the district’s commitment to student and community wellness.

The project was made possible through a partnership between Irving ISD, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas (BCBSTX), and National Fitness Campaign (NFC), along with support from Pogue Construction, WRA Architects, Inc., PBK, Huckabee, and the Irving Schools Foundation. The Fitness Court is a state-of-the-art outdoor gym that allows users to leverage their body weight for a full workout across seven exercise stations. Open to students, staff, and community members ages 14 and up, the space provides equitable access to high-quality fitness opportunities.

Superintendent Dr. Magda A. Hernández highlighted the district’s dedication to wellness:

“This ribbon cutting is not simply the unveiling of a space,” said Hernández. “It’s the celebration of a bold step forward for our students, families, and entire city — a step toward breaking down barriers to wellness, building healthier lifestyles, and making fitness truly accessible to all.”

The launch celebration began with student emcee Jewel Ojode, who welcomed guests and introduced the program. Board President A.D. Jenkins shared remarks recognizing the district’s ongoing efforts to prioritize student and community health. Amber Hodge, TRS Account Manager for Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas, spoke on behalf of the statewide sponsor supporting Fitness Courts across Texas.

Additional remarks were given by Crystal Scanio of the Irving Schools Foundation and Shane Williams of Pogue Construction, both emphasizing their pride in contributing to the project. Following the speeches, Superintendent Hernández joined district leaders and community partners for the ceremonial ribbon cutting, officially opening the Fitness Court to the public.

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The energy continued with a dynamic Fitness Court demonstration, led by Uliser Salmeron, Irving ISD’s Wellbeing and Fitness Coordinator, and Tyree Zachary from Pogue Life, showcasing all seven functional training zones. The morning concluded with a spirited Fitness Court Challenge featuring Nimitz High School athletes, giving attendees a firsthand look at how the court supports student fitness and community engagement.

“We proudly joined Irving ISD in unveiling the first-ever Fitness Court by a Texas school district at Nimitz High School,” said Pogue Construction. “We are honored to support initiatives that promote wellness, equity, and healthy lifestyles. This project reflects Irving ISD’s bold commitment to breaking down barriers to fitness and building a healthier future for all.”

“In addition to improvement in physical health, physical activity improves behavioral health conditions and can foster opportunities to make new social connections,” said Dr. Mark Chassay, Chief Medical Officer at BCBSTX. “Helping fund these Fitness Courts is just one example of how we can support optimal health outcomes for all Texans, right in their own communities.”

“We are excited to have Irving ISD join us in the journey to improve health and wellness as we work to make a powerful and long-lasting impact on health outcomes and happiness by building healthy communities across America,” said Mitch Menaged, Founder of NFC. “The addition of the outdoor Fitness Court®, along with digital wellness programming, demonstrates a tremendous commitment to wellbeing within the Irving community.”

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Irving ISD’s successful launch sets a new standard for school-based wellness initiatives in Texas. Communities eager to bring the Fitness Court® to their city or school district can reach out to National Fitness Campaign to explore partnership opportunities and funding support.