Welcome to
Physical Education!

The Physical Education Program contributes appreciably to the development of students in a holistic manner, so that students move to learn and learn to move. The program is divided into three broad learning areas: fitness/wellness, basic movement skills and concepts, and movement forms. Each area has a cognitive, psychomotor, and affective component. When students exit elementary school they possess a variety of basic skills and are well grounded in movement (space awareness, quality of movement, and body awareness). In addition, students have a beginning awareness of a variety of movement forms (including dance and sport forms). In junior and senior high, students utilize basic movement and their beginning awareness of movement forms. This permits refinement of specific skills. Students graduating from high school value and appreciate the body and movement, and are able to design their own personal fitness/wellness program. Fitness/wellness education is the thread that binds the K-12 physical education program together.

The individual needs of the students are met through appropriate, developmental activities. Utilization of a variety of teaching styles and various remedial programs (i.e., adaptive physical education) also facilitate meeting individual student needs. Higher levels of learning come through student success and progress. A range of activities helps prepare students for successful adulthood. Stressing basic movement in the early years with little importance given to competition helps promote self-esteem and confidence. The older students are offered more challenging movement forms such as different types of dance, aquatics, and "lifetime sports" (activities that may be continued throughout life). Thus, physical education is important now and for the future as students are prepared for a productive adult life.

Physical education is taught by specialists who stress movement for optimal growth and development, perceptual and cognitive development, improved functioning of the body, enhancement of self-concept/esteem and social competence, and prevention of the onset of cardiovascular disease.