As part of their commitment to assemble a new fitness center at their school, a group of fitness teachers drive their pick-up trucks to houses in the community, load up donated fitness equipment and then unload it at the school.

A mobile classroom became available at the beginning of the school year, and the teachers began talking to parents about their ambitious plan.

Currently, four classes fill the gym at one time, resulting in about 120 students moving in a tight space.

The teachers decided that pulling roughly 30 students out to learn technique on workout equipment would create more gym space and give students skills for a lifetime.

"Our goal is lifetime fitness," said Rick Clark, one of the teachers. "We know that every kid gets motivated differently. Some like weights; some like cardio. Some don't like either, and we're hoping that other options like Wii Fit will get them moving."

After a successful meet-the-teacher-night presentation, the equipment donations began pouring in.

"We're getting a lot of positive buzz right now," said teacher Floyd Rice.

"The students ask weekly when the fitness center will be open," said fellow teacher Robert Schoonover. Teachers hope to start using the center second semester.

Because the school cannot collect cash donations, four Davis Drive parents handle either cash or equipment donations. Parent Sharon Andrade believes in the fitness center and its goals.

"I remember the first time I walked in a gym as a young adult," she said. "I felt like a duck out of water. If these students learn when they are young, they will have a knowledge base and stick with it."

Andrade and neighbor Brenda Bakley are working with other parents and approaching corporations that might be getting rid of old equipment. "We have gotten $170 and lots of equipment so far," said Bakley. "A lot of people have let their equipment collect dust and don't use it." Money collected will go toward items on the fitness center wish list.

Clark said the fitness center will have broader implications for the school community. Students can use the equipment during class and before and after school. Sports teams can use the center during their off-seasons and in inclement weather. And teachers who want to take advantage of the facilities before or after school will have that option.

In the future, Clark and his fellow teachers also hope to start a fitness club that meets every other day after school.

Students would get physicals before lifting weights and have individual goals.

The teachers have received support from parents and administrators. Eighth grade assistant principal Rick Williams said, "It's easy to sit on the couch and not do anything after school, but this will help with motivation. Not only athletes will benefit, but all students."