NJ Schools Using Active Classrooms To Help Students Stay Focused

PATERSON, N.J. (CBSNewYork) -- Sitting still in class is old school.

Now, some teachers in New Jersey are encouraging their students to move it.

As CBS2's Vanessa Murdock reported, students are bouncing, balancing, kicking, and even cycling their way to a better education.

"It helps me focus more in class. It helps my posture," said Zachai Simmons, 13.

"I move a lot, so I was just anxious to get up all the time," 13-year-old Alicia Moss.

Teachers say an active body equals an active mind and students are more productive and less distracted. They're not only condoning this method, but made it possible through grants and donations.

At Alexander Hamilton Academy in Paterson, two teachers have their students moving and shaking.

Ms. Brock attached bouncy bands to the desks in her social studies class a month ago and Ms. Fatma Abdeladig, who teaches seventh grade math, uses bouncy balls to keep kids attention.

"I've noticed when they're in the classroom, they're less fidgety since they are able to move their feet. I see their hands are free and their minds are a little more clear," said Brock.

"They're just exerting this energy in a more positive direction," said Abdeladig.

Christopher McFadden admitted before bouncy bands, he got into a little trouble.

"Act like I'm doing something, but I'm really walking around," he said.

Now he's content sitting down.

"It's fun," he said.

Arlene Brito said she's not the only thing moving, so are her grades.

"Last time I had a B and now I have an A," She said.

At Glen Ridge High School David Majewskuh turned history into an interactive experience.

"I think that if they're sitting down in one position for a long time, they're not going to be as focused," he said.

The entire classroom is outfitted with equipment to keep students on the go, rotating every 5 minutes.

"It keeps you active and more focused on the lesson," said one student.

All this fun stuff keeps kids moving and seems to be working wonders for classroom concentration.

Due to the positive results, both schools plan to increase their number of active classrooms.