In health and physical education, students will learn the skills needed to be successful in life as active, healthy, and socially responsible citizens.  This department promotes important educational values and goals that support the development of character. These include striving to achieve one’s personal best, equity and fair play, respect for diversity, sensitivity and respect for individual requirements and needs, and good health and well-being.

The benefits of taking health and physical education courses are plentiful. Research has shown a connection between increased levels of physical activity and better academic achievement, better concentration, better classroom behavior, and more focused learning. Other benefits include improvements in psychological well-being, physical capacity, self-concept, and the ability to cope with stress. The expectations that make up this curriculum also provide the opportunity for students to develop social skills and emotional well-being.

The content and the setting of learning in health and physical education make it unique in a student’s school experience. Students are given opportunities to learn by doing. Their experiences in the program can include participating kinesthetically in activities in a gymnasium, in open spaces in the school, and outdoors; working with various types of equipment; working in a variety of group contexts; and discussing topics that have deep personal relevance and meaning. Students have opportunities to learn through creative work, collaboration, and hands-on experiences.

The health and physical education curriculum helps students develop an understanding of what they need in order to make a commitment to lifelong, healthy living, while developing the capacity to live satisfying, productive lives.

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