Why We Run Curriculum
Free Lesson Plans for Educators
To understand the importance of the Run to Remember, the Memorial has created this curriculum that includes three components.
- The Story: History of the bombing and the creation of the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum and the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon.
- Get Fit: Tips on getting healthy and preparing for the race.
- Got Character: Emphasizing 16 weekly positive character traits.
Four lessons per month (total of 16) through Race Day are provided to all participants. In addition, there are four videos that highlight a character Word of the Week. These videos are presented by Oklahoma’s own Darci Lynne Farmer, winner of America’s Got Talent! These are sure to get your kids excited about the race.
The OKC Kids Challenge Days training program is a 16-week initiative designed to engage elementary students in both physical activity and meaningful learning. With two sessions each week, the program helps kids build healthy habits, improve fitness, and understand the significance of the Run to Remember. By the end of the program, participants will have logged 25 miles and will be ready to complete the final 1.2 miles during the Kids Marathon on Race Day. Activities are divided into two groups – grades K through 3 and 4 through 6.
Each session includes warm-ups, character-building moments, movement activities, cooldowns, and wellness tips.
Running Log
Record your kids’ training distances and encourage them to complete all 25 miles before race day.
26 Acts = 26.2 Miles
In the Kids Marathon, every mile matters. For each mile run in training, students complete one act of service, kindness, or honor — living out the Oklahoma Standard. This not only builds healthy habits, but also connects kids to the Mission of the Memorial in a meaningful way.
Coloring Pages
Show Why You Run the Kids Marathon by creating your very own running shoe, tshirt, runner’s uniform, or decorating the Gates of Time. Display the designs in high traffic areas to increase awareness for the Kids Marathon and fuel school spirit.
Oklahoma Mileage Map
Record your family’s distances and learn about the geography and history of Oklahoma. The Mileage Map spans the state – highlighting landmarks and the Finish Line in Oklahoma City – and represents all Oklahomans coming together.
Completion Certificate
Recognize your Kids Marathoners and their dedication with a Kids Marathon Training Program certificate. Print it out and present it to those students who complete the 25 miles of training leading up to Race Day!
