A local teacher has been named the "National Physical Education Teacher of the Year".

Kathy Wagner won the award for her work with Pre-K and Kindergarten kids at Collegiate School in East Wichita. She says teaching P.E. to kids as young as 3-years old is vital in the fight against childhood obesity.

"It is absolutely imperative in our society to educate young children about taking care of themselves, living life full of healthy choices," Wagner said.

Wagner will testify before Congress next month about the importance of keeping physical education in schools.