At their April meeting, the Clarke County Development Corporation (CCDC) awarded a grant of more than $17,000 to the Murray Community School District to support the acquisition and implementation of an exciting new technology-enhanced physical education system called Lü. This high-tech, interactive solution is designed to boost student engagement and participation not only in physical education, but across a broad range of learning experiences.
“By integrating technology into physical education and extracurricular activities, we aim to cultivate a culture of innovation and adaptability for students,” said Jeanie Bower, Technology Integrationist for Murray Community Schools.
The Lü system transforms traditional gymnasiums and learning spaces into dynamic, immersive environments. Using wall projections, 3D cameras, lighting, and audio, Lü creates an interactive, larger-than-life experience that enhances physical, emotional, and intellectual development. Its robust software empowers educators to create custom activities and monitor student progress in a meaningful way.
According to the Iowa Department of Education, “Physical education (PE) is essential to a student’s overall education experience and builds a foundation for lifelong healthy living.”¹
However, a recent National Institutes of Health (NIH) study reports that “81% of youth (ages 11–17) do not participate in the recommended 60 minutes per day of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity.”²
With the integration of the Lü system, the Murray district hopes to increase the engagement of all their students beyond the gymnasium.
Conversations with the CCDC board highlighted enthusiasm for the initiative, noting the system’s potential for sustainability, long-term student engagement, and integration into extracurricular programming. There was also discussion around its ability to provide measurable feedback and expand educational opportunities beyond traditional gym activities.
“This is like a Wii Fit gaming system on steroids,” said Andrew B. Clark, Executive Director of CCDC. “Enabling students to physically engage while learning through this technology is going to be a game-changer.”
With the help of the CCDC matching grant, the Murray School District will move forward with the purchase, installation, and testing of the Lü system, aiming for full implementation by the Fall 2025 semester.
“This initiative will prepare our students for a future where technology and physical fitness are increasingly intertwined,” added Bower, “Equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle in the digital age.”