Maricopa SPI Boggs Applauds Trump Plan for Healthier Schools

Maricopa Superintendent of Public Instruction Shelli Boggs is applauding President Trump’s announced return of the Presidential Fitness Test, reviving the historic program promoting physical fitness and wellness among America’s youth. Initially established in 1966, the fitness challenge assessed students through mile runs, sit-ups, push-ups, and flexibility exercises—once a staple in American schools before being gradually phased out over the past decades. The test, originating in the mid-1950s and formalized by President Johnson in 1966, was suspended by President Barack Obama, who replaced it with the Presidential Youth Fitness Program. Obama’s new program allegedly focused on “holistic” student health.

“Under my leadership, we are bringing back strength, discipline, and pride to the next generation,” said Trump during his announcement. “Our children deserve better than junk food lunches and screens all day. We’re going to get them moving again, just like we used to. We will build a generation that is physically strong and mentally sharp.”

MAKE AMERICA FIT AGAIN! 💪🇺🇸

"I'm pleased to announce that we're officially restoring the Presidential Fitness Test and the Presidential Fitness Award." – @POTUS pic.twitter.com/8GgLW8cZ2O

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) July 31, 2025

The decision drew swift praise from education and health leaders across the country, including Boggs.

“As part of my ongoing commitment to keeping our children strong, healthy, and ready to succeed, I proudly stand in support of President Trump’s announcement,” said Superintendent Boggs. “Now is the time to reverse course and bring back programs that instill confidence, discipline, and a lifelong commitment to wellness.”

Boggs also praised the national benchmark as a smart, proactive step toward healthier school environments. “Physical fitness plays a crucial role in students’ academic success and emotional well-being,” she said. “This is about preparing kids not just for tests, but for life.”

Trump emphasized the broader goals of the initiative. “We are going to bring back the Presidential Fitness Test, but we’re also going to bring back excellence. We’re going to inspire kids to take pride in themselves, in their health, and in their country.”

The move aligns with Boggs’ prior work in school health policy. She has supported efforts by U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to eliminate ultra-processed foods from schools, creating a more holistic approach to student wellness.

“Together, these efforts represent a much-needed return to common sense: prioritizing the well-being of our children through real food and an active lifestyle,” Boggs stated. “Our students deserve better, and I am proud to support policies that put their health and future first.”

Trump said: “We’re going to stop feeding our kids garbage and pretending it’s normal. American kids deserve real food and real exercise. We’re going to raise strong kids again.”

The idea to reimplement the Presidential Fitness Test is largely credited to Vivek Ramaswamy, who floated it during his run for President.