Children and youth do not naturally develop the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors necessary to establish regular physical activity. They must learn these practices and schools are the primary agencies responsible for such instruction. A comprehensive physical education program will help students in developing the knowledge, skills, attitudes, values, and behaviors necessary to initiate and maintain a physically active lifestyle that will continue into and throughout adulthood.

Citizens who are health-literate and physically educated have the knowledge and skills to better achieve and maintain physical, social, and emotional health. Individuals that are physically educated exhibit a physically active lifestyle, can perform a variety of physical activities, and understand the benefits of involvement in physical activity. The knowledge and skills gained from a comprehensive physical education program contributes to a better quality of life for the individual, the family and the community.

Program Goals

Content:

1. Uses a variety of basic and advanced movement forms.
2. Uses movement concepts and principles in the development of motor skills.
3. Understands the benefits and costs associated with participation in physical activity.
4. Understands how to monitor and maintain a health-enhancing level of physical fitness.
5. Understands the social and personal responsibility associated with participation in physical activity.

Learning Skills:

1. Selects and apply appropriate solutions to problem-solving and decision-making situations.
2. Works cooperatively with others to accomplish a task.
3. Evaluates their own actions and accomplishments
4. Describes how ability, effort, and achievement are interrelated.
5. Demonstrates principles of safe physical movement.

Health

Content:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of health promotion and disease prevention concepts and health enhancing behaviors.
2. Demonstrate personal, interpersonal, and life skills which promote a health-enhancing lifestyle.
3. Understand aspects of the physical, mental, emotional, and social effects of substance use and abuse.
4. Demonstrate an understanding of the biological, social, cultural, and psychological aspects of human sexuality and family life.
5. Demonstrate an understanding of the availability and effective use of health services, products and information.

Learning Skills:

1. Describe the importance of personal skills and attitudes to achieve success.
2. Identify and access resources, sources of information, and services in school and the community.
3. Select and apply appropriate solutions to problem-solving and decision-making situations.
4. Work cooperatively with others to accomplish a task.
5. Evaluate their own actions and accomplishments.