• Physical education courses will be the environment where students learn, practice and are assessed on developmentally appropriate motor skills, social skills and knowledge.

• Policies ensure that state-certified physical education instructors teach all physical education classes.

• Policies ensure that physical education classes have a student/teacher ratio similar to other classes.  (24-1)

• Time recommended for physical activity will be consistent with research, national and state standards.  For example, the National Association for Sport and Physical Education includes recommendations for at least 60 minutes and up to several hours of physical activity per day for children 5 to 12 years of age.

• Provide a daily recess period at the Elementary and Middle School level.

• Physical education includes the instruction of individual activities as well as competitive and non-competitive team sports to encourage life-long physical activity.

• Adequate equipment is available for all students to participate in physical education.  Physical activity facilities on school grounds will be safe.

• The school provides a physical and social environment that encourages safe and enjoyable activity for all students, including those who are not athletically gifted.

• Information will be provided to families to help them incorporate physical activity into their student’s lives.

• Schools are encouraged to provide community access to and encourage students and community members to use the school’s physical activity facilities outside of the normal school day. (Gateway’s Wellness Center)

• Schools encourage families and community members to institute programs that support physical activity. (Gateway’s Wellness Center)

Other School Based Activities

• After-school programs will encourage physical activity and healthy habit formation.
• Local wellness policy goals are considered in planning all school-based activities (such as school events, field trips, dances, and assemblies).
• Support for the health of all students is demonstrated by hosting health clinics, health screenings, and helping to enroll eligible children in Medicaid and other state children’s health insurance programs. (Gateway’s School-based health center).