national association for sport and physical education & american

© 2010 National Association for Sport and Physical Educationan association of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance. (AAHPERD)All rights reserved. Intended for individual use only.

Reproducing this work in any form or by any electronic, mechanical, or other means—including photocopy-ing or storage in any information-retrieval system—is expressly forbidden without the written permission ofthe publisher. For permission to reprint or copy portions of this work for public or other dissemination, visitwww.naspeinfo.org or e-mail [email protected].

ISBN: 978-0-88314-958-4

Suggested citation for this book:

National Association for Sport and Physical Education & American Heart Association. (2010). 2010 Shapeof the nation report: Status of physical education in the USA. Reston, VA: National Association for Sportand Physical Education.

i

Table of Contents

About this Report.......................................................................................................................................................................iii

Introduction ................................................................................................................................................................................1

Executive Summary ...................................................................................................................................................................3■ Background: The Current Shape of the Nation.................................................................................................................4■ Metrics .............................................................................................................................................................................4

■ Key Guidelines for Children and Adolescents ...........................................................................................................4■ Physical Activity Participation by Young People.........................................................................................................5 ■ Public Support for Physical Education.......................................................................................................................5■ Overweight Among Youths .......................................................................................................................................5■ Physical Fitness and Academic Performance............................................................................................................5■ Expenditures on Physical Education ........................................................................................................................ 6

■ Overview of 2010 Survey Results ....................................................................................................................................6■ Recommendations for Action ..................................................................................................................................................9

2010 Survey Results: The Shape of the Nation■ Key State Physical Education Policies and Practices Chart ............................................................................................12■ Individual State Profiles ..................................................................................................................................................15■ State Standards for Physical Education Chart................................................................................................................63■ State Requirements for Teacher Certification/Licensure in Physical Education Chart....................................................67■ State Requirements for Student Assessment in Physical Education Chart ...................................................................69

Appendix A: National Standards and Guidelines for K-12 Physical Education..........................................................................71

Appendix B: Federal Legislation Affecting Physical Education.................................................................................................73

Appendix C: The Fight for Physical Education in the States ....................................................................................................75

Appendix D: Public Policy Agenda for Physical Education Research........................................................................................77

PREFACE iii

This report provides current information on the status ofphysical education in each of the states and the Districtof Columbia. Advocates can use this information in pre-sentations, letters and other means of communicationwith federal and state policymakers, the media and thegeneral public as part of the basis for expanding andimproving physical education.

About the Project

This project was supported by the professional membersand leaders of the National Association for Sport andPhysical Education (NASPE), an association of theAmerican Alliance for Health, Physical Education,Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD), and by the volunteersand leaders of the American Heart Association (AHA).NASPE and AHA are committed to educating and advocat-ing the importance and need for quality physical educationprograms for all children and adolescents in grades K–12.We are confident that the information in this latest editionof the Shape of the Nation Report will help bring attention tothe need for quality physical education programs thatincrease the health, academic performance and well-being ofall children and adolescents.

This report is available online for downloading atwww.naspeinfo.org/shapeofthenation.

Purpose and Scope

The purpose of this Shape of the Nation Report is to pro-vide current information about the status of physicaleducation in each of the 50 states and the District ofColumbia in the following areas:■ Time requirements■ Exemptions/waivers and substitutions■ Class size ■ Standards, curriculum and instruction■ Student assessment and program accountability■ Physical education teacher certification/licensure

About this Report

■ National Board Certification in physical education ■ State physical education coordinator requirements■ Body mass index (BMI) collection

This report not only brings attention to the impor-tance of quality, daily physical education programs for allschool-age children, it also will provide information thatcan be used as a basis for expanding and improvingphysical education programs in those states that needassistance. Quality physical education programs for all ofour children are the foundation for healthy, physicallyactive lifestyles as adults. The vision is that every studentwill become physically educated and thus possess theknowledge, skills and confidence to be physically activeand healthy for a lifetime.

Methodology

During the winter of 2009-10, NASPE asked physicaleducation coordinators in all 50 state education agenciesand the District of Columbia to complete an onlinequestionnaire about physical education mandates andpractices in their states. Follow-up e-mail messages andphone calls achieved complete response by all 51 entities.The data were reviewed and compiled into individualstate profiles and summary charts. The profile for eachstate was returned to the respective state educationagency representatives for confirmation of the contentsand revisions were made as needed.

BACKGROUND 1

Introduction

Since 1987, the National Association for Sport andPhysical Education (NASPE) has compiled the Shape ofthe Nation Report on a periodic basis to measure physicaleducation standards in the American education system.The report is made available to the profession and pub-lic to raise awareness and provide data for ongoing eval-uation of progress made and challenges remaining.

As with the 2006 Shape of the Nation Report, NASPEonce again is partnering with the American HeartAssociation (AHA) to collect and assimilate these data,and to provide additional supporting information. Thetwo organizations work together to support physical andhealth education in schools and advocate at the federaland state levels.

NASPE is the pre-eminent national authority onphysical education and a recognized leader in sport andphysical activity, and the AHA is a national voluntaryhealth agency whose mission is to reduce disability anddeath from cardiovascular diseases and stroke. BothNASPE and AHA believe in the importance of physicaleducation programs as regular physical activity not onlyimproves one’s overall well-being, it is one of the bestpreventers of significant health problems—includingoverweight or obesity, high blood pressure and choles-terol levels—linked to many chronic diseases.

The Shape of the Nation Report seeks to track our suc-cess, as a nation, in teaching our children that physicaleducation is a foundational element of a healthy lifestyle.The report looks at each state and the guidelines it setsforth toward this goal. The ongoing challenge of such areport, of course, is that there is no standard benchmarkagainst which to measure. Mandates differ widely from

state to state. Many state policies are broad and leavedetails open to interpretation by local schools, while oth-ers are quite prescriptive.

With this in mind, the Shape of the Nation Report sur-vey was limited to categories of information that couldbe measured across most states; an attempt to compare“apples to apples.” But not all states had every “apple,”so there may not be 51 answers across every category.

A few other things to remember as you review surveyresults: ■ No federal law requires physical education to be provided

to students in American schools.■ There are no incentives to states or schools to offer

physical education programs.■ States define guidelines and set requirements, but individ-

ual school districts are responsible for implementation. ■ School districts may choose to meet the minimum

standards or may (and often do) go above and beyondbasic recommendations.

■ A few states opt for “local control,” delegating responsi-bility for education decisions—including health andphysical education—to local school districts.

Despite all the variables, the Shape of the Nation Reportdoes reveal one truth with absolute clarity: that in everystate and every school, there are still men and womenwho care about the shape of our nation’s children andadolescents and they work every day to improve theirstudents’ lives and health. This report shows just a frac-tion of the work that these dedicated individuals under-take, and is a testament to their progress.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 3

Executive Summary

Background: The Current Shape of the Nation and Why We Need Physical Education in Schools

The National Association for Sport and PhysicalEducation (NASPE) believes that every child in theUnited States deserves a quality physical education andneeds physical activity, whether that activity occurs with-in a formal program or is outside the classroom at recess,through intramurals or in recreational play.

Physical education is based on a sequence of learning.These formalized courses are taught by professionals andfocus on the skills and knowledge needed to establishand sustain an active lifestyle. Physical education classesfocus on physical activity—running, dancing and othermovement but physical education also includes health,nutrition, social responsibility, and the value of fitnessthroughout one’s life.

Why is this so important? The U.S. Department ofHealth and Human Services (HHS) has noted a directcorrelation between regular physical activity and healthamong children and adolescents. For example, kids whoare physically active have vigorous cardiopulmonary andrespiratory systems: strong hearts and lungs. They haveless body fat. And they have strong bones and muscles.All these factors, according to HHS not only make for ahealthy childhood, they increase the chance of a healthyadulthood. Risk factors for chronic diseases such as heartdisease, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and osteo-porosis can develop early in life, and regular physicalactivity can be a significant preventative measure.1

Most health organizations, including NASPE, suggestthat “regular physical activity” add up to about an hourper day, every day. If this sounds like a lot, rememberthat the activity is cumulative: a child does not need tobe active for an hour straight, nor does he or she have toengage in many of the activities that adults consider tobe exercise. In fact, kids should engage in activitiesappropriate for their age.1 For example, unstructured

play during recess or in the backyard counts toward that60-minute total. Why? Running around wildly is bothaerobic and bone-strengthening. Climbing a tree or navi-gating playground equipment such as monkey barsincreases muscle strength by lifting and moving a child’sown body weight or working against resistance.1

Also, children tend to be active intermittently, alternat-ing moderate or vigorous activity with brief periods ofrest. They run around for awhile, then slow down a bit.This is true even as children grow into adolescents. Olderkids can play more organized games, including sports,and thus sustain longer periods of activity. Regardless, sayHHS guidelines, “No period of moderate- or vigorous-intensity activity is too short to count” toward the recom-mended daily activity.1

The reality, of course, is that children and adolescentsin the United States are primarily sedentary. Most kidsunder age 18 spend the majority of their day sitting inclassrooms, and a big part of their free time outside ofschool watching television, playing video games or surf-ing the Internet. A required physical education periodassures that, at a minimum, they’ll get at least a portionof the recommended activity in a day.2

But quality physical education goes far beyond thatsmall role. “Physical activity is a behavior,” writes oneexpert, “and physical education is a curricular area thathelps students to develop physical and cognitive skillswhile engaging in physical activity. Providing time forunstructured physical activity is not the same as provid-ing instructional time for meeting the goals of qualityphysical education.”3 More than just getting our kidsmoving once a day, “meaningful and appropriateinstruction”2 provides opportunities to learn importantlife skills.

The most obvious lesson, of course, is the importanceof being physically active throughout life. Researchshows a real link between quality physical education andpresent and future physical activity participation.2 Onepossible reason for this link is that youth “choose to par-

2010 SHAPE OF THE NATION REPORT4

ticipate in physical activities if they have skills thatenable them to participate.”2 Through physical educationcourses—instruction and specific, constructive feedbackfrom a certified teacher—students learn motor skills suchas running, jumping, throwing or catching. If you’vebeen taught the correct way to catch a baseball, throw abasketball through a hoop or perform a dance, you’ll bemore likely to go out and do them on your own, nowand 10 years from now.

If this nurturing environment doesn’t sound like thephysical education class from your youth, you’re proba-bly right. Gone are the days of calisthenics, mindlessexercise and contests that favored the most athletic kids.The focus has shifted to a more equitable curriculumthat stresses “performance and personal challenges, highlevels of fitness that support good health and exposure toa variety of sport and fitness activities.”3

“The new message that schools are giving kids aboutexercise is simple,” says one article. “Physical activitycomes in many forms, and there is something for every-one. Physical activity must be a regular part of everydaylife, as commonplace and important for good health asbrushing one’s teeth. Quality physical education andhealth education programs provide the foundation forhealthy, active lifestyles that support all learning and helpensure success in future pursuits.”3

This more balanced approach not only makes physicaleducation class a better experience for the less athleticstudent, it dramatically expands the skills that each par-ticipant gains: social, cooperative and problem-solvingcompetencies4 and hands-on experience in making self-

assessments, planning personal programs, setting goals,self-monitoring (through keeping physical activity diariesor logs), and making decisions.2

Finally, the benefits of physical education extend out-side the gym or playing field and across a student’sentire education experience. Research shows that dailyphysical education has a positive correlation with aca-demic performance and attitude toward school.4-5 Thismay be simply because physically fit students have bet-ter school attendance records and fewer disciplinaryreferrals.6 But recent research indicates that physicalactivity might impact academic performance “through avariety of direct and indirect physiological, cognitive,emotional and learning mechanisms”5 that we have yetto fully understand.

The conclusion, however, is clear: quality physicaleducation is an essential element in the formativegrowth of children and adolescents. At a minimum, itassures some degree of regular physical activity for mostschool-aged students. At its best, however, it creates aframework of life skills which shape the whole person,encouraging smart choices and influencing a healthylifestyle. Physical education is, in short, the best hopefor the shape of our nation.

Metrics

Key Guidelines for Children and Adolescents

U.S. Department of Health and Human ServicesPhysical Activity Guidelines for Americans1

■ Children and adolescents should engage in 60 minutes(1 hour) or more of physical activity daily. ■ Aerobic: Most of the 60 or more minutes a day

should be either moderate- or vigorous-intensity aer-obic physical activity, and should include vigorous-intensity physical activity at least 3 days a week.

■ Muscle-strengthening: As part of their 60 or moreminutes of daily physical activity, children andadolescents should include muscle-strengtheningphysical activity at least 3 days of the week.

■ Bone-strengthening: As part of their 60 or moreminutes of daily physical activity, children andadolescents should include bone-strengtheningphysical activity at least 3 days of the week.

■ It is important to encourage young people to partici-pate in physical activities that are appropriate for theirage, that are enjoyable and that offer variety.

In support of these guidelines, NASPE recommendsthat schools provide 150 minutes per week of instruc-tional physical education for elementary school children,

Critical Elements of a Quality Physical Education Program

1. Physical education is delivered bycertified/licensed physical education teachers.

2. Adequate time (i.e., 150 minutes per week forelementary school students; 225 minutes perweek for middle and high school students) isprovided for physical education at every grade,K–12.

3. All states develop standards for student learningin physical education reflective of the NationalStandards for Physical Education.

4. All states set minimum standards for studentachievement in physical education.

5. Successfully meeting minimum standards inphysical education is a requirement for highschool graduation.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 5

and 225 minutes per week for middle and high schoolstudents throughout the school year.

Physical Activity Participation by Young People

■ In one study, 65% of high school students did not meetrecommended levels of physical activity—activity thatincreased their heart rate and made them breathe hardsome of the time for a total of at least 60 minutes perday–on 5 or more of the previous 7 days.7

■ 35% of high school students watch television 3 ormore hours per day on an average school day.7

■ 25% play video or computer games or use a computerfor something that is not school work for 3 or morehours per day on an average school day.7

■ Nationwide, fewer than one-third of all children ages 6to 17 engage in vigorous activity, defined as participat-ing in physical activity for at least 20 minutes thatmade the child sweat and breathe hard.8

■ 48.4% of schools offer intramural activities or physicalactivity clubs to students, and 77.0% of middleschools and 91.3% of high schools offer studentsopportunities to participate in at least one interscholas-tic sport.8

Public Support for Physical Education

■ The American Academy of Pediatrics, NASPE, theAmerican Heart Association, the U.S. Department ofHealth and Human Services, the U.S. Department ofEducation, the President’s Council on Physical Fitnessand Sport and the Centers for Disease Control andPrevention (CDC) all are on record as supporting theneed for physical activity for youth and for qualityphysical education in schools.2

■ 31% of physical education teachers perceive increasedinterest and support from parents regarding students’physical activity; and 27% perceive increasedinterest/support from parents regarding students’ physical education.9

■ According to one survey, nearly all parents (95%)think that regular daily physical activity helps childrendo better academically and should be part of a schoolcurriculum for all students in grades K-12.10

■ Three out of four parents (76%) think that moreschool physical education could help control or pre-vent childhood obesity.10

■ The majority of parents believe that physical educationis at least as important as other academic subjects. Thepercentages range from 54% to 84%, depending onthe subject being compared.10

■ A survey report from the Harvard Health Forum indi-cates that 91% of parents surveyed feel that thereshould be more physical education in schools, particu-larly for fighting obesity.11

Overweight Among Youths

■ Among children ages 6-11, 33% are overweight and17% are obese.12

■ 34% of adolescents and teens ages 12-19 are over-weight and 17.6% are obese. These rates have roughlydoubled since 1980.12

■ Eight of the 10 states with the highest rates of obeseand overweight children are in the South, as are nineof the 10 states with the highest rates of poverty.8

Physical Fitness and Academic Performance

■ A 2004 California Department of Education study,using data from a standardized health-related fitnesstesting protocol and the California Standards Tests,showed a significant positive relationship betweenphysical fitness and academic achievement.14

Positive Physical Education Pledge (naspe, 2004)

As a highly qualified physical education teacher, I pledge to:■ Establish a positive, safe learning environment for

all students; ■ Teach a variety of physical activities that make

physical education class fun and enjoyable;■ Create maximum opportunities for students of all

abilities to be successful; ■ Promote student honesty, integrity and good

sportsmanship; ■ Guide students toward becoming skillful and con-

fident movers; ■ Facilitate the development and maintenance of

physical fitness; ■ Assist students in setting and achieving personal

goals;■ Provide specific, constructive feedback to help stu-

dents master motor skills; ■ Afford opportunities for students to succeed in

cooperative and competitive situations; and ■ Prepare and encourage students to practice skills

and be active for a lifetime.


■ A 2007-08 study of more than 2.4 million Texas stu-dents found that students who were physically fit weremore likely to do well on the state’s standardized teststhan students who were not physically fit.6

■ In 2009, the New York City Health Department andDepartment of Education reported that physical fit-ness was associated with higher academic achievementamong their public school students.6

■ A 2010 CDC report analyzes a large body of evidencelinking physical education and school-based physicalactivity with academic performance, including cogni-tive skills and attitudes, academic behaviors and aca-demic achievement.16

Expenditures on Physical Education …

■ The median physical education budget for schools inthe United States is only $764 per school year ($460for elementary, $900 for middle, and $1,370 for highschools), and 61% of physical education teachersreport an annual budget of under $1,000. Only 15%report funding of $2,000 or more.9

■ “School budget” is the most-cited source for programfunding (64%), followed by school district budget(38%), PTA/PTO (34%), and grant programs (28%).9

… and the Cost of Doing Without It

■ It is estimated that obesity will cost the United States$344 billion in medical-related expenses by 2018,about 21% of the nation’s health-care spending.15

References (background section)

1. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2008). 2008 Physical activity guidelines for Americans. Washington,D.C.: Author.

2. Le Masurier, G. and Corbin, B. (2006). Top 10 reasons for qualityphysical education. The Journal of Physical Education, Recreation& Dance, 77(6). Reston, VA: American Alliance for Health,Physical Education, Recreation and Dance.

3. Burgeson, C. R. (2004). Physical education’s critical role in educat-ing the whole child & reducing childhood obesity. The StateEducation Standard, 5, no. 2: 27–32. Arlington, VA: NationalAssociation of State Boards of Education (NASBE).

4. National Association for Sport and Physical Education. (2001).Physical education is critical to a complete education [Positionstatement]. Reston, VA: Author.

5. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2010). Physicalactivity, physical education and academic performance: A reviewof the literature. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health andHuman Services. 2010.

6. Texas Education Agency. (2009). Physically fit students more like-ly to do well in school, less likely to be disciplinary problems.

Austin, TX: Texas Education Agency.

7. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The obesity epi-demic and United States students fact sheet, combining resultsfrom 2007 National youth risk behavior survey and 2006 schoolhealth policies and programs study. Atlanta, GA: Author.

8. Trust for America’s Health and the Robert Wood JohnsonFoundation. (2009). F as in fat: How obesity policies are failing inAmerica 2009. Princeton, NJ: Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.

9. National Association for Sport and Physical Education. (2009).Physical education trends in our nation’s schools: A survey ofpracticing K-12 physical education teachers. Port Washington, NY:Roslow Research Group.

10. National Association for Sport and Physical Education. (2003).Parents’ views of children’s health and fitness: A summary ofresults. Reston, VA: Author.

11. Harvard School of Public Health. (2003). Obesity as a publichealth issue: A look at solutions. Boston: Author.

12. Ogden, C., Carroll, M., & Flegal, K. (2007). High body mass indexfor age among U.S. children and adolescents, 2003-2006. Journalof the American Medical Association. 2008;299(20): 2410-2405

13. Carlson, S., Fulton, J., Lee, S., et al. (2008). Physical educationand academic achievement in elementary school: Data from theearly childhood longitudinal study. American Journal of PublicHealth, 98(4), 721-727.

14. California Department of Education. (2005) A study of the rela-tionship between physical fitness and academic achievement inCalifornia using 2004 test results. Sacramento, CA: Author.

15. United Health Foundation, American Public Health Association andPartnership for Prevention. (2009). America’s Health Rankings™ –2009 edition. Minnetonka, MN: Author.

16. U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2010). Theassociation between school-based physical activity, includingphysical education, and academic performance. Atlanta, GA: U.S.Department of Health and Human Services. 2010.

Overview of 2010 Survey Results

This 2010 survey of physical education coordinators inall 50 state education agencies and the District ofColumbia (counted as a “state” for the purpose of thisreport) finds an incremental—but slight—improvementsince the 2006 Shape of the Nation survey. The majorityof states mandate physical education throughout allgrade levels, but most do not require a specific amountof instructional time, and about half allow exemptions,waivers, and/or substitutions. These “loopholes” contin-ue to reduce the effectiveness of the mandate.

Another pattern with differential impact on physicaleducation is local control of education. Some statesestablish standards or very broad guidelines for curricu-lum content but defer specific decisions regarding time,class size and student assessment to local school districts

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 7

or even schools. This results in very diverse patterns ofdelivery for physical education within states.

Other results, including accountability, testing, assess-ment and even teacher certification, vary widely amongthe states. Thus, most states can measure their progressonly against their own past performance and not againsta standard benchmark.

Grade-Level Mandates and Time Requirements

The majority of states mandate that students must takephysical education. Just more than 84% of states (43)mandate physical education for elementary school stu-dents, 78% of states (40) mandate it for middle/juniorhigh school students and 90% (46) mandate it for highschool students.

Of those states that mandate physical education forelementary school students, 86% (36) require classes inkindergarten, 93% (39) require physical education ingrades 1 through 5, and 71% require physical educationin grade 6. This discrepancy for grade 6 is due to manyschools’ structuring elementary as grades K-5, with grade6 as part of middle school or junior high. At the elemen-tary school level, only 35% (18) specify a minimum“minutes per week” or “minutes per day” that studentsmust participate in physical education; three states—Alabama, Florida and Louisiana—require the nationallyrecommended 150+ minutes per week. Additionally,only 18% of states (9) require elementary schools to pro-vide daily recess.

Of those states that mandate physical education formiddle/junior high school students, 61% (31) require itin 7th grade, and 59% require it in 8th grade. At themiddle/junior high school level, only 31% (16) specify aminimum “minutes per week” or “minutes per day” thatstudents must participate in physical education; threestates—Alabama, Montana and Utah—require thenationally recommended 225+ minutes per week.

State mandates for physical education for high schoolstudents tend to specify a number of credits rather thanspecific grade levels required to take physical educationcourses. Of the 45 states requiring high school physicaleducation, nearly 75% (38) dictate a specific number ofcredits required for graduation: 12 states require 0.5credit, 15 states require 1 credit, three state require 1.5credits and seven states require 2 credits. New Jersey hasthe highest credit requirements, with 3.75 credits peryear of attendance, equal to 15 credits for a traditionalfour-year program. Nine states also require a health or

wellness course (usually 0.5 credit) to graduate.

Only five states in the country—Illinois, Iowa,Massachusetts, New Mexico and Vermont—requirephysical education in every grade K-12. New Jersey andRhode Island require physical education in grades 1-12.

Exemptions/Waivers and Substitutions

More than half of all states (32) permit school districtsor schools to allow students to substitute other activitiesfor their required physical education credit. Among thosestates, common allowances include JROTC (18), inter-scholastic sports (15), marching band (10) and cheer-leading (10).

More than half of all states (30) allow schools orschool districts to grant exemptions/waivers for physicaleducation time or credit requirements, although they arenot necessarily the same states that allow substitutions.Common reasons for exemptions include health issues,physical disability, religious beliefs and early graduation.Of the states allowing exemptions or waivers, all but fiveleave the reasons for, and granting of, waivers to the localschool or school district.

Standards and Assessment

Forty-eight states (92%) have their own state standardsfor physical education, but only 67% (34 states) requirelocal districts to comply or align with these standards.The six national standards for physical education areusually addressed within these state standards: 98% (46states) address development of motor/movement skills,knowledge and application of movement concepts, andpersonal/social responsibility; 94% (44) address regular

Mandate for Number Percentage Number Percentage physical of states in 2010 of states in 2006education in 2010 in 2006

Elementary 43 84% 36 70%

Junior High 40 76% 33 65%

High School 46 90% 42 83%

All averages and percentages in this summary section count the District of Columbia as a “state,” for a total of 51 (not 50) states

Number Percentage Number Percentage of states in 2010 of states in 2006in 2010 in 2006

Substitutions 32 63% 27 53%

Waivers 30 59% 18 35%

participation in physical activity and development andmaintenance of physical fitness; and 85% (40 states)address valuing physical activity.

Only 37% of states (19) require some form of stu-dent assessment in physical education. Among thestates that do require assessment, 74% (14) requireassessment of physical fitness, 37% (7) require assess-ment of knowledge of physical education content,26% (5) require assessment of participation in physicalactivity outside of physical education class, and 32%(6) require assessment of personal/social responsibilityin physical education.

Just 10% (5 states) send this assessment informationto the state department of education as congregate datafor each school, and only 8% (4 states) note that thesedata are sent from the schools to the students’ parents or guardians.

Five states—New Hampshire, New Mexico, NewYork, Vermont and Virginia—require assessment inevery grade.

Online Physical Education

Currently, 43% of states (22) allow required physicaleducation credits to be earned through online physicaleducation courses. Of these 22 states, 27% (6) offercomprehensive physical education, defined as addressingall state or national standards; 41% (9) offer a course inpersonal fitness and wellness; 14% (3) offer some typeof sports, such as golf; and 18% (4) offer weight train-ing online.

Seven states allow all students to take the courses, andthree states allow students who request permission and areapproved. All others leave eligibility decisions to the localdistricts. Only 20% (10 states) require that online coursesbe taught only by state-certified physical education teachers.


Accountability

Down slightly from 2006, just 27% of states (14)require physical education grades to be included in astudent’s grade point average (GPA). Eighteen stateshave a required comprehensive assessment test for grad-uation, but only five include physical educationachievement in the test. The majority of states (78%, or40) have an education “report card” for each school;only five states include physical education as one of theacademic areas on the annual report from schools tothe state.

Body Mass Index (BMI) Collection

Thirteen states (25%) require schools to measure BMIand/or height and weight for each student. New Jerseyand Pennsylvania are the only two that require this col-lection in every grade, 1-12.

Two states require that aggregate BMI data be sent tothem from each school; four states require that data besent from each school district. Five states require thatindividual student results are sent to students’ parents,and one state reports using the data in a research study.


Assessments 19 37% 15 29%


State allows 22 43% 12 24%online physicaleducation


PE grades 14 27% 22 43%included inGPA

Comprehensive 18 35% 16 31%test forgraduation

PE included in 5 10% 0 0%this test

Education 41 80% 45 89%report card forschool

PE included in 5 10% 3 6%this schoolreport card


BMI collected 13 25% 3 5%

Standards (NBPTS). Twenty-two of those states activelypromote National Board Certification and encourageteachers to register, and 9 states provide mentoring forteachers going through the process.

Nine states provide partial funding for the NBCprocess if the teacher receives board certification; threestates provide partial funding regardless of whether theteacher receives certification; and four states provide fullfunding regardless of whether the teacher receives certifica-tion. Six states give a one-time monetary bonus if theteacher receives board certification; seven states provide anongoing higher level of pay to all teachers who areNational Board certified; five provide one or more forms of non-monetary recognition for National Boardcertified teachers.

Only Missouri, New York and Virginia require eachschool district to have a licensed physical educator serv-ing as a PE coordinator.

Recommendations for Action

NASPE and AHA know that physically active, healthykids learn better. School-age youths need at least 60 min-utes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity every day.

To achieve that level of activity, NASPE and AHA rec-ommend that schools across the country make physicaleducation the cornerstone of a comprehensive schoolphysical activity program that also includes health educa-tion, elementary school recess, after-school physicalactivity clubs and intramurals, high school interscholasticathletics, walk/bike-to-school programs, and staff well-ness programs. It is particularly important that voluntaryprograms (i.e., after-school physical activity clubs, intra-murals) are designed to attract all students, especiallythose not interested in traditional athletic programs.

Physical education is a planned instructional programwith specific objectives. An essential part of the totalcur-riculum, physical education programs increase thephysi-cal competence, health-related fitness, self-respon-sibility and enjoyment of physical activity so that stu-dents can establish physical activity as a natural part ofeveryday life.

For elementary school students, recess provides anopportunity for needed physical activity. Children learnhow to make decisions, cooperate, compete constructive-ly, assume leader/follower roles and resolve conflicts byinteracting in play. Play is an essential element of chil-dren’s physical and social development.

NASPE and AHA recommend that schools and com-munities work together to offer a variety of physical

9

Teacher Certification/Licensure

The majority of states require that physical educationteachers have some sort of licensure or certification.Eighty-two percent (42 states) require licensure at theelementary school level, although 57% of states (29)allow elementary classroom teachers (generalists) to teachrequired elementary school physical education classes.Certification or licensure of junior high physical educa-tion teachers is mandated in 90% of states (46), and cer-tification or licensure of high school physical educationteachers is mandated in 98% of states (50).

Thirty-six states (71%) require those who desire toteach physical education to take and pass acertificate/licensure exam [in 26 states, this is the PRAX-IS or PRAXIS II exam]. This exam is also required torenew or maintain the teacher certification/licensure.

Most states (90% or 46 states) have a requirement forprofessional development/continuing educationhours/credits for a physical education teacher to main-tain or renew his or her certification. More than a third(37%, or 19) require professional development for physi-cal education teachers on physical education topics, com-parable to other curricular areas. However, only 12% (6)provide any funding for professional developmentspecifically for physical education teachers.

Twenty-nine states (57%) grant temporary/emergencycertificates to teach middle/junior high school, and 28(55%) grant temporary/emergency certificates to teachhigh school physical education; 26 states (51%) do so forelementary school physical education. Of the 25 statesthat have a minimum requirement for receiving a tempo-rary/emergency certificate, eight require a bachelor’sdegree in teaching (but not in physical education), and13 require a bachelor’s degree in any area. In 15 states,the temporary/emergency certificate is valid for one year;it’s valid for two years in four states; and valid for threeyears in three states.

Sixty-one percent of states (31) actively support physi-cal education teachers going through the certificationprocess by the National Board for Professional Teaching

Temporary Number Percentage Number Percentage Certification of states in 2010 of states in 2006

in 2010 in 2006

Elementary 26 51% 31 69%

Junior High 29 57% 35 69%

High School 28 55% 35 61%

activities as part of before- and after-school child careand recreation programs. Child care providers, recreationstaff and coaches need training to provide developmen-tally appropriate, safe and enjoyable activities.

Parents need to be proactive and effective advocates forquality physical education and school physical activityprograms, and communities need to develop and pro-mote the use of safe, well-maintained and close-to-homesidewalks, bike paths, trails and facilities for physicalactivity and sport participation. Most of all, parents andother adult role models need to set a good example bybeing active themselves.

In summary, NASPE and AHA recommend: 1. Quality physical education is provided to all students

as an integral part of K-12 education.

2. Physical education is delivered by certified/licensedphysical education teachers.

3. Adequate time (i.e., 150 minutes per week for ele-mentary school students; 225 minutes per week formiddle and high school students) is provided forphysical education at every grade, K-12.

4. All states develop standards for student learning inphysical education reflective of the NationalStandards.

5. All states set minimum standards for student achieve-ment in physical education.

6. Successfully meeting minimum standards in physicaleducation is a requirement for high school graduation.

7. Other courses and activities that include physicalactivity should not be substituted for instructionalphysical education.

8. Physical activity is incorporated into the school day,in addition to physical education, through elementaryschool recess, physical activity breaks, physical activityclubs, special events, etc.

9. Parents monitor and support their children’s physicaleducation progress and regular participation in physi-cal activity.

10. Communities provide and promote the use of safe,well-maintained and close-to-home sidewalks, bikepaths, trails and recreation facilities.



State mandates elementary school physicaleducation

State mandates middle school/junior highschool physical education

State mandates high school physical education

State permits schools or school districts toallow students to substitute other activities forthe required physical education credit

State grants exemptions/waivers regardingphysical education time or credit

State has its own standards for physical education

State requires student assessment in physicaleducation

State requires physical education grades to beincluded in a student’s grade point average

State requires all who teach elementary schoolphysical education to be certified/licensed

State requires all who teach middle school/jun-ior high school physical education to be certi-fied/licensed

State requires all who teach high school physi-cal education to be certified/licensed

State requires professional development/con-tinuing education to maintain/renew physicaleducation teacher certification/licensure

State provides funding for professional devel-opment for physical education teachers

State actively supports physical educationteachers becoming certified through theNational Board Certification process

State require each school district to have alicensed physical educator serving as a PEcoordinator

Key State Physical

Education Policies

and Practices

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STATE PROFILES 15

State Profiles

AlabamaAmount of Required Physical Education:

Alabama mandates at least 30 minutes of physical edu-cation per day in grades K-5, but it does not require dailyrecess. Local education agencies (LEAs) are allowed tomake the decision to include recess. The state also recom-mends, but does not require, at least 50 minutes per dayof physical education in grades 6-8 and in high school.

High School Graduation Requirements: Students alsomust complete a 1.0 credit personal wellness course,Lifelong Individualized Fitness Education for graduation.

Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute inter-scholasticsports, JROTC, marching band and cheerleading fortheir required physical education credit.

Exemptions/Waivers: Only the state superintendent cangrant an exemption to an individual student regardingphysical education time or credit. The exemption is validfor a two year period.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The Alabama Course of Study:Physical Education was last revised in 2009. [See StateStandards for Physical Education chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state requires the use of specificcurricula for elementary, middle school/junior high andhigh school physical education, all of which contain atechnology component. These curricula specifically donot permit yoga to count as physical education or physi-cal activity. LEAs have the option of using a commercialcurriculum such as SPARK or CATCH.

Class Size: The state mandates a teacher-to-student ratiocomparable to other curricular areas.

Online Physical Education Courses: The state does notallow required physical education credits to be earnedthrough online physical education courses.

Student Assessment Requirements: The staterequires student assessment in physical education everyyear, starting in Grade 2.

Fitness Testing: The state requires LEAs to assess stu-dents’ physical fitness levels using the President’sChallenge. Results are used only to report to thePresident’s Challenge program.

State Comprehensive Assessment Test: The statedoes not have a comprehensive assessment test forgraduation.

Education Report Card: The state has an educationreport card for each school, but physical education isnot included as one of the subject areas.

Body Mass Index (BMI): The state does not requireschools to collect students’ BMI or height and weight.

Certification/Licensure of Physical Education

Teachers: The state requires certification or licensure ofphysical education teachers at the elementary, middleschool/junior high and high school levels. Elementaryclassroom teachers (generalists) may teach required ele-mentary school physical education classes. A score of141 on the PRAXIS exam is required for certification.

Professional Development of Physical Education

Teachers: Professional development continuing educa-tion hours or credits are required in order tomaintain/renew one’s physical education teacher certifi-cation or licensure. No state funding is provided forthis professional development.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process by providing full fund-ing if the teacher receives board certification, and pro-viding a one-time monetary bonus if the teacherreceives board certification.

District Physical Education Coordinator:

The state does not require each school district to have a licensed physical educator serving as a PE coordinator.


Fitness Testing: The state does not require the use of aparticular fitness test protocol.

State Comprehensive Assessment Test: The state doesnot have a comprehensive assessment test for graduation.

Education Report Card: The state has an educationreport card for each school, but physical education is notincluded as one of the reported subject areas.


Certification/Licensure of Physical Education Teachers:

While the state requires certification of teachers at theelementary, middle school/junior high and high schoollevels, decisions are made at the local level regarding theneed for physical education endorsements for physicaleducation teachers.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state does notactively encourage physical education teachers to becomecertified through the NBC process.

District Physical Education Coordinator: The state doesnot require each school district to have a licensed physi-cal educator serving as a PE coordinator.

Contact Person:

Terri CampbellEducation SpecialistState of Alaska Department of EducationP.O. Box 110500Juneau, AK [email protected]

ArizonaAmount of Required Physical Education:

Arizona mandates physical education for ele-mentary and middle/junior high school, but does notdictate specific grades or minutes per week. Competencyin health/physical education in K-8 is required, but isdetermined at the local level.

High School Graduation Requirements: The state doesnot mandate the number of high school physical educa-tion credits required for a student to graduate.

Exemptions/Waivers: The state does not have a policyon granting exemptions/waivers for school districtsregarding physical education time or credit requirements.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, but school districts do nothave to comply. The Arizona Physical EducationStandards were last revised in 2009. [See State Standardsfor Physical Education chart for details.]

Other Notes: Currently developing a state-specificphysical fitness test, curriculum guide and new qualityphysical education standards to include adapted physi-cal education.

Contact Person

Nancy RayPhysical Education and Health SpecialistAlabama Department of EducationCurriculum and Instruction50 North Ripley StreetMontgomery, AL [email protected]

AlaskaAmount of Required Physical Education:

Alaska does not mandate physical education in ele-mentary or middle school/junior high school. The statemandates high school physical education but does notspecify the grades of participation of the length of physi-cal education per week.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 1.0 health/physical educationcredit for graduation. No additional personal fitness orwellness courses are required.

Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute sports or otheractivities for their required physical education credit.

Exemptions/Waivers: The state does not grant exemp-tions to a school district regarding physical educationtime or credit.

State Standards: The state has developed voluntarystandards for physical education. The Alaska PEStandards are currently in draft form and have not yetbeen released.

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education.

Class Size: The state does not mandate a teacher-to-student ratio comparable to other curricular areas.

Online Physical Education Courses: Decisions are madeat the local level as to whether physical education creditsmay be earned through online physical education cours-es, which courses are offered online, and who is eligibleto take online courses.

Student Assessment Requirements: The state does notrequire student assessment in physical education.

STATE PROFILES 17

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh and high school physical education. The stateallows the local school system, individual schools andphysical education teachers to use a commercial curricu-lum such as SPARK or CATCH.


Online Physical Education Courses: The state does nothave a policy on whether physical education credits maybe earned through online physical education courses.



State Comprehensive Assessment Test: The state has arequired comprehensive assessment test for graduation,but physical education is not measured in this test.

Education Report Card: The state has an educationreport card for each school, but physical education is notincluded as one of the subject areas.



The state requires only an Arizona teaching certificate forphysical education teachers at the elementary, middleschool/junior high and high school levels. Elementaryclassroom teachers (generalists) may teach required ele-mentary school physical education classes.

Professional Development of Physical Education Teachers:

Professional development, continuing education hours orcredits are required in order to maintain/renew one’steacher certification or licensure. No state funding is pro-vided for this professional development.

Temporary Certification: Temporary/emergency teachercertification to teach physical education may be grantedfor up to one year to anyone holding a bachelor’s degreein any subject area.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process.


Other Notes: Currently providing professional develop-ment around physical education and standards throughthe coordinated school health approach.

Contact Person:

Breann Westmore, CCFSPhysical Activity, Nutrition & Tobacco Prevention CoordinatorSchool Health and Nutrition ProgramsArizona Department of Education1535 West Jefferson St. Bin #7Phoenix, AZ [email protected]

ArkansasAmount of Required Physical Education:

Arkansas mandates at least 60 minutes of physical educa-tion and instruction and 90 minutes of physical activity perweek in grades K-6. The state also mandates that, inschools organized to teach grades 5-8, or any combinationthereof, students must receive 60 minutes of physical edu-cation training and instruction each week or an equivalentamount in each school year. Students in grades 9-12 mustearn 0.5 physical education credits as required for gradua-tion. These requirements are enforced through theArkansas Standards for Accreditation.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 0.5 physical education creditsfor graduation.

Substitutions: The state permits schools to allow stu-dents to substitute an “organized physical activity course”for their required 0.5 physical education credits for grad-uation. The “organized physical activity course” must betaught by a licensed physical education instructor,aligned with the Arkansas Physical EducationCurriculum Framework, and must be taught within theschool day.

Exemptions/Waivers: Exemptions and waivers are notpermitted.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The Arkansas Physical Education andHealth Curriculum Frameworks were last revised in2005. [See State Standards for Physical Education chartfor details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh and high school physical education. However, thestate allows the local school district the option of using acurriculum based on the needs of the district.

Class Size: The state mandates a teacher-to-student ratioof 30:1 in grades K-6. In grades 7-12, physical education isconsidered a course that lends itself to large group instruc-tion, therefore; teacher-to-student ratio is not applicable.


Online Physical Education Courses: Physical Educationis offered via distance learning (synchronous) for gradua-tion credit.


Grade Point Average (GPA): Physical education gradesare included in a student’s overall GPA.

Fitness Testing: The Arkansas Physical EducationCurriculum Frameworks does require students to partici-pate in a nationally recognized health fitness assessment.



Body Mass Index (BMI): The state requires schools tocollect students’ BMI and/or height and weight ingrades K, 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10. Individual results and infor-mation on BMI are sent to the parent or guardian ofeach student.


The state requires a licensed physical education teacher at themiddle school/junior high and high school levels. In gradesK-6, a licensed and/or qualified physical education teachermust directly supervise physical education instruction.


All certified employees of public schools must complete60 hours of approved professional development each yearto maintain/renew their license.

Temporary Certification: Temporary/emergency teachercertification may be granted for up to one year to anyoneholding a bachelor’s degree in any subject area.



Contact Person:

Debby WoodsCoordinated School HealthArkansas Department of Education2020 West 3rd St., Suite 320Little Rock, AR [email protected]

CaliforniaAmount of Required Physical Education:

California mandates at least 200 minutes of phys-ical education every 10 school days in grades 1-6, andalso requires daily recess. The state also mandates at least400 minutes every 10 school days of physical educationin grades 7-8 and for all four years of high school. Theserequirements are enforced through California’sCategorical Program Monitoring process.

High School Graduation Requirements: The state man-dates that, to fulfill the requirement for high school gradu-ation, students must take two years of physical education.

Substitutions: The state permits the local educationagency to determine how each particular class, as con-ducted in its district, supports its course of study forgrades 9-12.

Exemptions/Waivers: The governing board of a schooldistrict or the office of the county superintendent ofschools may grant a temporary exemption to a studentfor a number of reasons, including illness or injury, if thestudent is enrolled for one-half or less of the work nor-mally required of full-time pupils, or if the student isengaged in a regular school-sponsored interscholastic ath-letic program, Permanent exemptions may be granted bythe same governing body if the student is age 16 or olderand has been enrolled in grade 10 for one academic yearor longer, is enrolled as a postgraduate pupil or is enrolledin a juvenile home, ranch, camp, or forestry camp schoolwhere pupils are scheduled for recreation and exercise.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, although school districts arenot required to comply. The Physical EducationFramework for California Public Schools was last revisedin 2009. [See State Standards for Physical Educationchart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh and high school physical education. Local districtshave the option of using a commercial curriculum.

Class Size: The state does not mandate a teacher-to-stu-dent ratio comparable to other curricular areas


Student Assessment Requirements: The state requiresstudent assessment in physical education in grades 5, 7and 9. Results are sent to the state as congregate data for

STATE PROFILES 19

the school and for the district. Students also must benotified verbally or in writing of their individual results.The state requires the use of a physical fitness test tomeasure performance of motor/movement skills andphysical fitness levels.

Fitness Testing: The state requires schooldistricts/schools to assess students’ physical fitness levelsusing the FITNESSGRAM physical fitness test.



Body Mass Index (BMI): The state requires schools tocollect students’ BMI or height and weight in grades5, 7 and 9. Results are sent to the state as congregatedata for the school and for the district and may beshared publicly.


The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may teach required elementaryschool physical education classes.

Professional Development of Physical Education

Teachers: No professional development continuing education hours or credits are required in order to main-tain/renew one’s physical education teacher certificationor licensure.


National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process. Eligible NBC teacherswith approved applications submitted prior to April2009 were eligible for up to $20,000 over four years forteaching in high-need schools.

District Physical Education Coordinator: The state does not require each school district to have a licensedphysical educator serving as a PE coordinator.

Other Notes: State coordination of physical education isshared by different offices and agencies. Certification isunder the Commission on Teacher Credentialing.Testing, standards and curriculum support is under theCalifornia Department of Education.

Contact Person:

Jim GrecoCalifornia Department of Education1430 N St., Suite 4309Sacramento, CA [email protected]

ColoradoAmount of Required Physical Education:

Colorado does not mandate physical education in ele-mentary, middle school/junior high or high school.

High School Graduation Requirements: The state doesnot mandate the number of high school physical educa-tion credits required for a student to graduate.

Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute other activities forrequired physical education credit.

Exemptions/Waivers: The state does not grant exemp-tions/waivers regarding physical education time or creditrequirements.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, and school districts mustcomply. The standards were last updated in January2010. [See State Standards for Physical Education chartfor details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school sys-tems have the option of using a commercial curriculumsuch as SPARK or CATCH.


Online Physical Education Courses: The state allowsphysical education credits to be earned through onlineclasses, and all students are eligible to take these classes.




Education Report Card: The state does not have an edu-cation report card.




The state does not require certification or licensure ofphysical education teachers at the elementary, middleschool/junior high or high school levels. Elementaryclassroom teachers (generalists) are allowed to teach ele-mentary school physical education classes.


National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process by providing partial fund-ing for cost if the teacher receives board certification, andby providing a one-time monetary bonus if the teacherreceives board certification.


Contact Person:

Terry JonesPrevention InitiativesColorado Department of EducationState Office Building, 201 East Colfax Ave.Denver, CO [email protected]

ConnecticutAmount of Required Physical Education:

Connecticut mandates physical education and dailyrecess in grades K-6, and high schools must providephysical education courses.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 1.0 physical education credit for graduation.

Substitutions: Substitution of other activities for physi-cal education credit required for high school graduationis not permitted.

Exemptions/Waivers: Students need a physician’s writ-ten order for a medical exemption from high schoolphysical education credit, and this medical exemptionrequires an appropriate alternative.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, although school districts arenot required to comply. The Healthy and BalancedLiving Curriculum Framework for ComprehensiveSchool Health Education and Comprehensive Physical

Education was last revised in 2006 and is based onnational standards. [See State Standards for PhysicalEducation chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education, but allows localschool systems and individual schools the option ofusing a commercial curriculum such as SPARK or CATCH.



Student Assessment Requirements: The state requiresstudent assessment for physical fitness in grades 4, 6, 8and 10. The data are sent to the state as congregate datafor the school and for the district.

Fitness Testing: The state requires schooldistricts/schools to assess students’ physical fitness levelsusing The “Third Generation” Connecticut PhysicalFitness Assessment.


Education Report Card: The state has an educationreport card for each school, and physical education isincluded as one of the subject areas.



The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Physical education istaught only by certified physical education teachers. Forcertification, teachers must earn a score of at least 154on both the PRAXIS II Physical Education ContentKnowledge; and the PRAXIS II Physical EducationMovements Forms—Analysis and Design. This certifica-tion must be renewed every five years.


Professional development, continuing education hours orcredits are required in order to maintain/renew one’s phys-ical education teacher certification or licensure. No statefunding is provided for this professional development.

Temporary Certification: Temporary/emergency teachercertification may be granted for less than one year toanyone holding a bachelor’s degree in any subject area.

STATE PROFILES 21



Other Notes: Connecticut is a “local control” state, so inmany of these areas, the state has recommendations forlocal districts and schools rather than requirements.

Contact Person:

Dr. Jean MeePhysical Education & School Health Education ConsultantConnecticut State Department of Education25 Industrial Park Rd. Middletown, CT 06457 [email protected]

DelawareAmount of Required Physical Education:

Delaware mandates physical education in grades K-8, and requires that high schools provide physical educa-tion courses. These requirements are enforced throughthe Delaware Department of Education Regulation 503.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 1.0 physical education creditfor graduation.

Substitutions: The state does not permit school districtsor schools to allow students to substitute other activitiesfor their required physical education credit.

Exemptions/Waivers: School districts are given authori-ty to grant waivers from physical education requirementson the basis of medical status from a certified physicianor because of a student’s religious beliefs. The waivermust be renewed annually.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The Delaware RecommendedCurriculum was last revised in 2007. [See StateStandards for Physical Education chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school sys-tems must develop or use a curriculum that meets thestate standards for physical education.

Class Size: The state does not mandate a teacher-to-stu-dent ratio comparable to other curricular areas.


Student Assessment Requirements: Delaware passedlegislation that requires giving the FITNESSGRAM/ACTIVITYGRAM annually to all students in grades 4,7, 9 and 10. Results must be shared with parents,guardians or relative caregivers. Results are sent to the stateas congregate data for the district, and statewide trends areshared publicly each year. Many schools also test students at additional grade levels than those required.

Fitness Testing: The state requires schooldistricts/schools to assess students’ physical fitness levelsusing the FITNESSGRAM/ACTIVITYGRAM.






The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. A score of 152 on thePRAXIS II exam is required for certification, and thiscertification must be renewed every five years.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required to maintain/renew one’s physicaleducation teacher certification or licensure. State fundingis provided for this professional development.

Temporary Certification: Temporary/emergency teachercertification may be granted for up to three years to any-one holding a bachelor’s degree in any subject area.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process, providing or facilitatingmentoring for teachers going through the process, andproviding one or more forms of non-monetary recogni-tion for National Board-certified teachers.



Contact Person:

John Ray, Physical Education SpecialistDelaware Department of Education401 Federal St., Suite 2Dover, DE 19901302-735-4180 [email protected]

District of ColumbiaAmount of Required Physical Education:

The District of Columbia does not mandate physicaleducation in grades K-8, and does not require dailyrecess in elementary school. The District does, however,require one year in high school.

High School Graduation Requirements: Students musthave one year (two semesters) of physical education andone semester of health to graduate.

Substitutions: The District does not permit school dis-tricts or schools to allow students to substitute otheractivities for their required physical education credit.

Exemptions/Waivers: Exemptions are not allowed.

State Standards: The District has developed its ownstandards for physical education. The Physical EducationStandards were last revised in 2007. [See State Standardsfor Physical Education chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The District does not require the useof specific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Individualschools have the option of using a commercial curricu-lum such as SPARK or CATCH.

Class Size: The District mandates a teacher-to-studentratio comparable to other curricular areas.

Online Physical Education Courses: The District doesnot allow required physical education credits to beearned through online physical education courses.

Student Assessment Requirements: The District doesnot require student assessment in physical education.

Fitness Testing: The District does not require the use ofa particular fitness test protocol.

State Comprehensive Assessment Test: The Districthas a required comprehensive assessment test for gradua-tion, but physical education is not measured in this test.

Education Report Card: The District has an educationreport card for each school, but physical education is notincluded as one of the subject areas.

Body Mass Index (BMI): The District does not requireschools to collect students’ BMI or height and weight.


The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may not teach required elementaryschool PE classes. The PRAXIS I exam, with scores of172 on reading 171 on writing, and 174 on math, isrequired for certification.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required to maintain/renew one’s physical edu-cation teacher certification or licensure. No state fundingis provided for this professional development.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process by providing or facilitatingmentoring for teachers going through the process andproviding monetary assistance with the application fee.

District Physical Education Coordinator: The Districtdoes not require each school district to have a licensedphysical educator serving as a PE coordinator.

Other Notes: About 40% of the students in the Districtattend public charter schools.

Contact Person:

Sandra Schlicker, Ph.D.Director, Wellness and Nutrition ServicesOffice of the State Superintendent of EducationGovernment of the District of Columbia810 1st Street NE 4th Floor Washington, DC [email protected]

FloridaAmount of Required Physical Education:

Florida mandates at least 150 minutes of physical education per week (average of 30 minutes per day) ingrades K-5, but it does not require daily recess. The statealso mandates physical education in grades 6-8, but doesnot specify minutes per week. High schools must providephysical education courses. Schools must report partici-pation in physical education through student member-ship surveys showing enrollment numbers for eachschool and/or school district.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to complete a 1.0 credit personal wellness course, chosen by the school: Personal

STATE PROFILES 23

Fitness or HOPE (Health Opportunities throughPhysical Education).

Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute interscholasticsports, community sports, JROTC, marching band, ordance for their required physical education credit.

Exemptions/Waivers: Waiver options are included in thelegislation listing the physical education requirements.Schools and school districts can waive the physical educa-tion requirement only for those waiver options includedin legislation. For K-8, this waiver is valid for the currentschool year only and must be renewed annually.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The Next Generation Sunshine StateStandards for Physical Education were last revised inDecember 2008. [See State Standards for PhysicalEducation chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary or middle school/juniorhigh, but does specify high school curriculum, whichcontains a technology component. Local school systemshave the option of determining which curricula are used,including, but not limited to, commercial options.

Class Size: The state does not mandate a teacher-to-student ratio comparable to other curricular areas

Online Physical Education Courses: The state allowsrequired physical education credits to be earned throughonline physical education courses. A course in compre-hensive physical education (addressing all state or nation-al standards) is currently offered online. All students areeligible to take online courses. Those courses at the highschool level, grades 9-12, must be taught only by state-certified physical education teachers.




State Comprehensive Assessment Test: The state has acomprehensive assessment test for graduation, theFlorida Comprehensive Achievement Test, but physicaleducation is not measured in this test.


Body Mass Index (BMI): The state requires schools tocollect students’ BMI or height and weight in grades 1,3, 6 and 9. These data are sent to the state as congregatedata for the school district.


Certification or licensure of physical education teachersis required only at the high school level. Elementaryclassroom teachers (generalists) may teach required ele-mentary school PE classes. The Florida TeacherCertification Exam is required for certification, whichmust be renewed every five years.



Temporary certification: Temporary/emergency teachercertification may be granted for up to two years to any-one holding a bachelor’s degree in any subject area.



Contact Person:

Nichole WilderPhysical Education Coordinator, Florida Department of Education325 West Gaines St., Suite 432Tallahassee, FL [email protected]

GeorgiaAmount of Required Physical Education:

Georgia mandates physical education in gradesK-8, but it does not require daily recess. The state alsomandates that high schools provide their students withphysical education courses.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 0.5 physical education creditsfor graduation, with 0.5 credits given per semester.Students must also complete a 0.5 credit personal well-ness course, Personal Fitness.

Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute JROTC for theirrequired physical education credit.



State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The Georgia Performance Standardsfor Physical Education were last revised in June 2009.[See State Standards for Physical Education chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/junior highor high school physical education. Local school systemshave the option of using a commercial curriculum.

Class Size: The state mandates a teacher-to-student ratiocomparable to other curricular areas, with a maximum of40 students per physical education class.

Online Physical Education Courses: The state allowsrequired physical education credits to be earned throughonline physical education courses, and currently offerscourses in personal fitness/wellness and in weight train-ing. All students are eligible.

Student Assessment Requirements: The state does notrequire student assessment in physical education.However, House Bill 229, signed by Gov. Beverly Perduein April 2009, requires that, beginning in the 2011-2012school year, students in grades 1-12 that are enrolled in a physical education class must have an annual fitness assessment. The fitness assessment and data collection will be determined by the state’s Departmentof Education.






The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may teach required elementaryschool physical education classes. Certifications must berenewed every five years.


There are no specific physical education requirements forprofessional development continuing education hours or

credits. However, all teachers must complete six semesterhours of college course work, or 10 credits of GeorgiaProfessional Learning Units (PLUs), or 10 credits ofContinuing Education Units to renew certification.Certification renewal must be completed every five years.




Contact Person:

Therese McGuire, Ed.S.Program SpecialistHealth and Physical EducationGeorgia Department of EducationSuite 1754 Twin Towers East 205 Jesse Hill Jr. Dr.Atlanta, GA [email protected]

HawaiiAmount of Required Physical Education:

Hawaii mandates at least 30 minutes of physical educa-tion per week in grades K-6, and requires daily recess.The state also mandates that high schools provide stu-dents with physical education, and high school studentsare required, for graduation, to take one year of physicaleducation, during which they must participate in at least200 minutes per week.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 1.0 physical education creditfor graduation, including a 0.5 credit personal wellnesscourse, Physical Education Lifetime Fitness.


Exemptions/Waivers: Principals have the authority inextreme cases to waive any course requirement.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The Hawaii Content andPerformance Standards III for Physical Education werelast revised in 2005. [See State Standards for PhysicalEducation” chart for details.]

STATE PROFILES 25

educator serving as a PE coordinator. However, Hawaiidoes have a physical education/health resource teacher ineach district. The positions are funded through a memo-randum of agreement (MOA) with the Department ofHealth and uses tobacco settlement funds.

Contact Person:

Dave RandallEducational Specialist, Health and Physical EducationHawaii Department of Education475 22nd Ave., Room 119Honolulu, HI 96816808-203-5538David_Randall/OIS/[email protected]

IdahoAmount of Required Physical Education:

Idaho mandates physical education in grades K-8, but itdoes not require daily recess. There is no state mandateat the high school level.

High School Graduation Requirements: There is nostate mandate at the high school level.

Substitutions: There is no state mandate regarding sub-stitutions.

Exemptions/Waivers: School districts may allow exemp-tions; however, Idaho does not have a graduationrequirement for physical education at the high schoollevel, so waivers are generally unnecessary.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The Idaho Content Standards forPhysical Education were last revised in 2010. [See StateStandards for Physical Education chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school sys-tems have the option of using any curriculum, includinga commercial option, which has been approved throughthe state curriculum review process.


Online Physical Education Courses: Since physical education is not a graduation requirement, online cours-es are sometimes offered.



State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education, but does have alist of recommended curricula for school use. Localschool systems have the option of using a commercialcurriculum such as SPARK, CATCH or FITNESSGRAM.


Online Physical Education Courses: Online physicaleducation courses are not available.

Student Assessment Requirements: Teachers mustassess students based upon the HCPS III for PE grade-level benchmarks. They must use a preponderance ofthe evidence from these assessments to provide stu-dent grades.




Education Report Card: The state has a “trend report”for each school, which includes performance indicatorsin areas relating to student achievement, safety and wellbeing, and civic responsibility. It does not include physical education.



The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may teach required elementaryschool physical education classes. The PRAXIS exam isrequired for certification.


Professional development continuing education hours or credits are required to maintain/renew one’s physicaleducation teacher certification or licensure. No state fund-ing is provided for this professional development.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process providing or facilitatingmentoring for teachers going through the process, andproviding a one-time monetary bonus for the teacherswho receive board certification.

District Physical Education Coordinator: The state doesnot require each school district to have a licensed physical






The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers only at the high school level.Elementary classroom teachers (generalists) may teachrequired elementary school physical education classes.Certification must be renewed every five years.





Contact Person:

Rhonda DeMersPhysical Activity, Nutrition and Tobacco PreventionPANT CoordinatorIdaho State Department of Education650 W. State St.Boise, ID [email protected]

IllinoisAmount of Required Physical Education: Illinois

mandates daily physical education in grades K-12,but it does not require daily recess at the elementaryschool level. The state enforces these mandates by requir-ing written assurances from schools.

High School Graduation Requirements: The state does not mandate the number of high school physicaleducation credits that are required for high school gradu-ation. However physical education is mandated daily forall high school grade levels.

Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute interscholasticsports, JROTC, marching band or competitive cheer-leading for the required physical education credit.

Exemptions/Waivers: Districts may request a one-timephysical education waiver from the state legislature. Ifapproved, the initial waiver is for a two-year period.Districts then can apply for two two-year extensions ofthis waiver for a total of six years.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The Illinois Learning Standards werelast revised in 1996. [See State Standards for PhysicalEducation chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school sys-tems have the option of using a commercial curriculumof their choice.







Body Mass Index (BMI): The state requires schools tocollect students' BMI or height and weight in grades 1,6 and 9. This information is collected by the doctorswho give the students their required school physicals atthese grade levels. BMI data are also used for researchstudies. The BMI data are being collected by the IllinoisDepartment of Public Health.



STATE PROFILES 27


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required to maintain/renew one’s physicaleducation teacher certification or licensure. The state alsorequires professional development for physical educationteachers on physical education topics, comparable toother curricular areas. No state funding is provided forthis professional development.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process by providing or facilitat-ing mentoring for teachers going through the process,providing full funding if the teacher receives board certi-fication, and providing one or more forms of non-mon-etary recognition for National Board-certified teachers.


Contact Person:

Glenn SteinhausenPE Consultant Illinois State Board of Education 100 North First St. Springfield, IL 62777-0001 [email protected]

IndianaAmount of Required Physical Education:

Indiana mandates physical education in grades K-8,and daily physical activity is required, which can includerecess. The state also mandates that high schools providephysical education courses for students.

High School Graduation Requirements: Two credits inphysical education (PE I & PE II) are required for allIndiana diplomas.

Substitutions: Through credit flexibility, any activitycan be worked into an individual education plan if ithelps the student meet the physical education coursedescriptions and standards. Schools may award credit inany course based on demonstration of proficiency againstthe academic standards without regard to a minimumamount of instruction. The physical education teacherdevelops the course requirements, assesses performanceand grants the grade and credit.

Exemptions/Waivers: There is no exemption regardingphysical education time or credit available in Indiana, withthe exception of the credit flexibility mentioned above.

State Standards: The state has developed standards forphysical education. The Indiana Academic Standardswere adopted in 2008. [See State Standards for PhysicalEducation chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school sys-tems have the option of using SPARK or CATCH com-mercial curricula.

Class Size: The state’s teacher-to-student ratio require-ment applies equally to all instruction areas.

Online Physical Education Courses: The state allowsrequired physical education credits to be earned throughonline physical education courses. For credit to be recog-nized by a local high school, the course must meet thestate physical education course description and stan-dards. Local schools decide who is eligible to take onlinecourses. These courses may be taught only by licensedphysical education teachers.

Student Assessment Requirements: The state does notrequire standardized student assessment in physical education.



State Comprehensive Assessment Test: The state has arequired assessment test for graduation, but physical edu-cation is not measured in this test.




The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may teach required elementaryschool physical education classes. A score of 150 on thePRAXIS II exam is required for certification.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required to maintain/renew one’s physicaleducation teacher certification or licensure. The state alsorequires professional development for physical educationteachers on physical education topics, comparable to


other curricular areas. State professional developmentfunding has been provided in the past, but fiscal difficul-ties have resulted in severe cutbacks.

Temporary Certification: Temporary/emergency teachercertification may be granted for up to one year to anyoneholding a bachelor’s degree in any subject area and whopasses the PRAXIS I basic skills test.



Contact Person:

Sue FoxxInterim Physical Education SpecialistIndiana Department of Education151 W. Ohio St.Indianapolis, IN [email protected]

IowaAmount of Required Physical Education: Iowa

mandates physical education in grades K-12, but it doesnot require daily recess at the elementary school level.High school students must participate in at least 45 min-utes of physical activity per week. The state checks oncompliance every five years.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 2.0 physical education creditsfor graduation, with 0.5 credits given per school year.

Substitutions: The state permits school districts or schoolsto allow students to substitute interscholastic sports orJROTC for their required physical education credits.

Exemptions/Waivers: Local schools may grant waiversto students for one semester at a time.

State Standards: The state does not have its own stan-dards for physical education.

State Curriculum: The state requires the use of specificcurricula for elementary, middle school/junior high andhigh school physical education. Local school systemshave the option of using any of the following commer-cial curricula: SPARK, CATCH, FITNESSGRAM orPE4Life.


Online Physical Education Courses: Online courses arepermitted, and are open to students who request permis-sion to take online courses and are approved by theschool. Online courses are taught only by state-certifiedphysical education teachers.







The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may teach required elementaryschool physical education classes. Certification must berenewed every five years.



Temporary Certification: Temporary or emergencyteacher certification may be granted for up to two years to anyone holding a bachelor’s degree in educationor teaching.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certifiedthrough the NBC process by providing partial fundingonly if the teacher receives board certification.


Contact Person:

Edward ThomasConsultantIowa Department of Education400 E 14th St.Des Moines, IA [email protected]

STATE PROFILES 29

KansasAmount of Required Physical Education:

Kansas mandates physical education from grades K-6 (ifthe school is configured K-6) or grade 8 (if the school isconfigured K-8). Daily recess at the elementary schoollevel is also required. High schools also must provide stu-dents physical education.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 1.0 Carnegie Unit (credit) ofphysical education for graduation.

Substitutions: The state does not permit school districtsor schools to allow students to substitute other activitiesfor physical education credit.

Exemptions/Waivers: Waivers may be granted for specialeducation students, students with physical disabilities andfor religious reasons. The waiver duration depends on thestudent’s individualized education plan.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, although school districts donot have to comply. The Kansas Physical EducationStandards were last revised in 2006 and based upon theNational Physical Standards for Education. [See StateStandards for Physical Education chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school sys-tems or individual schools have the option of using com-mercial curricula or choosing their own.

Class Size: The state does not mandate a teacher-to-stu-dent ratio.

Online Physical Education Courses: Students whorequest permission to take online courses and areapproved may earn physical education credits in thismanner.




Education Report Card: The state does not have an edu-cation report card for each school.



The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/juniorhigh and high school levels. Elementary classroom teachers(generalists) may teach required elementary school physi-cal education classes. Certification must be renewed everyfive years.



Temporary Certification: Temporary or emergencyteacher certification may be granted for less than oneyear to anyone holding a bachelor’s degree in any area.



Contact Person:

Dr. Darrel LangHealth, Physical Education, HIV/AIDS and Human Sexuality EducationProgram ConsultantKansas State Department of Education120 SE 10thTopeka, KS [email protected]

KentuckyAmount of Required Physical Education: Kentuckymandates that high schools provide their students withphysical education.


Substitutions: The state allows substitutions for medicalreasons: a local board of education may authorize a sub-stitute physical education course based on a student'scapabilities as specified by the student's physician. Thestate also permits school districts or schools to allow stu-dents to substitute interscholastic sports or JROTC fortheir required physical education credit.


Exemptions/Waivers: The state allows exemptions fromthe 0.5 high school physical education graduationrequirement for religious reasons. A local board of education may exempt a student from the graduationrequirement when the local board receives an affidavitfrom the student's parents and church leader. In thealternative, a local board may maintain the physical edu-cation graduation requirement if the basis of the religiousobjections can be accommodated.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, and all school districts mustcomply. The Kentucky Program of Standards were lastrevised in 2006. [See State Standards for PhysicalEducation chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school sys-tems have the option of using SPARK or CATCH com-mercial curricula.

Class Size: The state does not mandate a teacher-to-stu-dent ratio comparable to other curricular areas.









The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may teach required elementaryschool physical education classes. A certification/licen-sure exam is required for certification.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required in order to maintain/renew one’s physical education teacher certification or licensure. Nostate funding is provided for this professional development.

Temporary certification: Temporary or emergencyteacher certification may be granted for one year to any-one holding a bachelor’s degree in teaching or education.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process by providing or facilitat-ing mentoring for teachers going through the process,providing partial funding for teachers going through theprocess and providing an ongoing higher level of pay toall teachers who are National Board-certified.


Contact Person:

Cathy BushCurriculum Development ConsultantKentucky Department of Education500 Mero St.Frankfort, KY [email protected]

LouisianaAmount of Required Physical Education:

Louisiana mandates 150+ minutes of physicaleducation per week in grades K-8, but it does not requiredaily recess. The state also requires high schools to pro-vide physical education to their students.



Exemptions/Waivers: Waivers and exemptions aregranted for health reasons only.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The Bulletin 102, LouisianaPhysical Education Content Standards were last revisedin 2009. [See State Standards for Physical Educationchart for details.]

STATE PROFILES 31

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school sys-tems or individual schools have the option of using acommercial curriculum.










The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the middle school/junior high andhigh school levels. Elementary classroom teachers (gener-alists) may teach required elementary school physicaleducation classes. An exam is required for certification.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required to maintain/renew one’s physical education teacher certification or licensure. No state fund-ing is provided for this professional development.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process by providing full reim-bursement and a one-time monetary bonus if the teacherreceives board certification.


Contact Person:

Michael Comeaux, M.S., M.H.S.A.Health and Physical Education Coordinator

Division of Student Learning and SupportLouisiana Department of Education120 North 3rd St.Baton Rouge, LA [email protected]

MaineAmount of Required Physical Education: Maine man-

dates physical education in grades K-8, but it does notrequire daily recess in elementary schools. The state alsorequires high schools to provide physical education totheir students.



Exemptions/Waivers: The state Commissioner ofEducation may grant waivers for one year at a time.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The 2007 Maine Learning Results:Parameters for Essential Instruction have not beenrevised. [See State Standards for Physical Education chartfor details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school sys-tems or individual schools have the option of using acommercial curriculum.



Student Assessment Requirements: The state requiresstudent assessment in physical education annually ingrades 3-8. School districts and teachers decide how touse data. Data are not sent to the Maine Department ofEducation. The assessment measures performance ofmotor/movement skills, physical fitness levels, knowledgeof physical education content and personal and socialresponsibility in physical education.




Education Report Card: The state does not have an education report card for each school.

Body Mass Index (BMI): The state passed legislation in2009 to collect BMI data in Maine schools. A workgroup has been convened, but has yet to finalize thedetails of this legislation.


The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/juniorhigh and high school levels. Elementary classroom teachers(generalists) may teach required elementary school PEclasses, but only if a school district shows that an unduehardship exists. The PRAXIS exam is required for certifi-cation, and certification must be renewed every five years.



Temporary Certification: Temporary or emergencyteacher certification may be granted for one year. A con-ditional license requires 24 college credits in the area; atransitional license requires a bachelor’s degree in anotherteaching area and six credits in a new content area.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state encouragesteachers to become certified through the NBC process.

District Physical Education Coordinator: The state doesnot require each school district to have a licensed physicaleducator serving as a PE coordinator.

Contact Person:

Jayne ChasePhysical Education ConsultantState of Maine, Department of Education23 State House StationAugusta, ME [email protected]

MarylandAmount of Required Physical Education:

Maryland mandates physical education in grades K-8,

but it does not require daily recess at the elementaryschool level. The state also requires high schools to pro-vide physical education to students. This is enforced bythe Code of Maryland Regulations.


Substitutions: Each local school system determines theinstruction materials and activities that will allow its stu-dents to meet the state’s physical education standards.


State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, which all local school sys-tems must include in their curricular documents. TheMaryland State Curriculum for Physical Education waslast revised in May 2009. [See State Standards forPhysical Education chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state requires local schools toalign to the State curriculum. The local school systemsdetermine the instructional materials and activities thatwill allow their students to meet the Maryland physicaleducation standards.

Class Size: The state does not specify a teacher-to-student ratio.






Education Report Card: Each local school system has areport card for all content areas that also includes gradesfor physical education.



The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may teach required elementary

STATE PROFILES 33

school PE classes. A score of 70% on the PRAXIS examis required for certification.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required in order to maintain/renew one’s physical education teacher certification or licensure. Nostate funding is provided for this professional development.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certifiedthrough the NBC process by providing or facilitatingmentoring for teachers going through the process, provid-ing partial funding for cost only if the teacher receivesboard certification and providing partial reimbursementfor teachers going through the process.

District Physical Education Coordinator: The state doesnot require each local school system to have a licensedphysical educator serving as a PE coordinator.

Other Notes: Maryland policy provides local control tothe school systems. Most decisions are specific to eachlocal school system regarding grading, assessments, reportcards and other assessments.

Contact Person:

Michael Mason, Specialist for Physical EducationMaryland Department of Education 200 West Baltimore St. Baltimore, MD [email protected]

MassachusettsAmount of Required Physical Education:

Massachusetts mandates physical education in gradesK-12, but it does not require daily recess in elementaryschool. The state requires high schools to provide stu-dents with physical education. Compliance with physi-cal education law is monitored during the coordinatedprogram review that is conducted with all school dis-tricts on a rotating basis every six years. A school thatdoes not require physical education in every grade isrequired to develop corrective action plans.

High School Graduation Requirements: State law doesnot specify the number of physical education creditsrequired for graduation.

Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute other activitiesfor their required physical education credit. Local schoolofficials have discretion to determine whether and how astudent, particularly at the high school level, may meetthe physical education requirement through an organ-

ized program of instructed physical activity. This discre-tion is similar to the authority of school officials to per-mit students to fulfill the requirements of an academiccourse by taking a course elsewhere that the officialsdeem to be equivalent.

Substitutions: Exemptions/Waivers: Individual schooldistricts may grant waivers or exemptions.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education. The MassachusettsComprehensive Health Curriculum Framework was lastrevised in 1999. [See State Standards for PhysicalEducation chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school dis-tricts decide their own physical education curricula,which may include commercial curricula.

Class Size: The state does not mandate a teacher-to-stu-dent ratio comparable to other curricular areas

Online Physical Education Courses: The use of onlinephysical education courses is up to individual school districts.

State Comprehensive Assessment Test: The state doesnot have a required comprehensive assessment test forgraduation that includes physical education.




Body Mass Index (BMI): The state has a newly-adoptedpolicy which requires collection of students’ BMI orheight and weight in grades 1, 4, 7 and 10. BMI datawill be reported directly and confidentially to a parent orlegal guardian, and without identifiers to theMassachusetts Department of Public Health. Theserequirements shall be met by June 30, 2010, by publicschool systems receiving direct funding from the depart-ment for school nursing services, and by June 30, 2011,by all other public schools.


The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may teach required elementaryschool physical education classes, as they are tested in thelicensure exam for the content area of physical education.



There is a requirement for professional develop-ment continuing education hours or credits formaintaining licensure.



Contact Person:

Amy O’Neil, M.Ed., CHESPhysical Activity, Nutrition, and Tobacco (PANT)/HealthEducation CoordinatorMassachusetts Department of Elementary and SecondaryEducation74 Pleasant St.Malden, MA [email protected]

MichiganAmount of Required Physical Education:

Michigan mandates that elementary, middle/junior highand high schools provide their students with physicaleducation. However, the state does not specify certaingrade levels or minutes per week, and does not requiredaily recess in elementary schools.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 1.0 credit in health and physicaleducation. It recommends that credit be split evenly: 0.5for physical education and 0.5 for health education.

Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute interscholasticsports, JROTC, marching band or cheerleading for therequired physical education credit. Beginning with theclass of 2011, even students who have been granted sub-stitutions the students will be required to show profi-ciency in the state standards to be awarded the credit for graduation.

Exemptions/Waivers: Local school districts can grant anexemption to individual students for physical educationtime or credit. The exemption is valid for a one-year period.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The Grade Level ContentExpectations for Physical Education for grades K-8 werelast revised in 2007. [See State Standards for Physical

Education chart for details.] The state also has setMichigan Merit Curriculum Guidelines for high school.

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school sys-tems have the option of using a commercial curriculum,including Exemplary Physical Education Curriculum,CATCH, and SPARK.

Class Size: The state does not mandate a teacher-to-stu-dent ratio comparable to other curricular areas. However,the state board of education passed a policy on qualityphysical education in 2003 that recommends physicaleducation classes have a teacher-to-student ratio consis-tent with other subject areas/classrooms.

Online Physical Education Courses: The state allowsrequired physical education credits to be earned throughonline physical education courses.








The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may teach required elementaryschool physical education classes. The Michigan Test forTeacher Certification exam is required for certification,which must be renewed every five years.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required in order to maintain/renew one’sphysical education teacher certification or licensure. Thestate also requires professional development for physicaleducation teachers on physical education topics, compa-rable to other curricular areas. No state funding is pro-vided for this professional development.

STATE PROFILES 35

Temporary Certification: Temporary or emergency certi-fication may be granted to teach at the middleschool/junior high school or high school level to anyoneholding a bachelor’s degree in teaching or education.This certification is valid for one year.



Contact Person:

Kyle Guerrant, SupervisorCoordinated School Health and Safety UnitMichigan Department of EducationPO Box 30008Lansing, MI 48909517-241-4284 [email protected]

MinnesotaAmount of Required Physical Education:

Minnesota mandates physical education in grades K-8,and allows local districts to determine whether dailyrecess is required in elementary school. Their state alsomandates that high schools provide their students withphysical education. Local school boards are responsiblefor ensuring that all state requirements are met.

High School Graduation Requirements: There is no staterequirement for physical education credit for graduation.

Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute other activitiesfor their required physical education credit. Each districtmust develop local standards in physical education, andsubstitutions are permitted if the local district deter-mines that participation in the activity meets all thestandard requirements.

Exemptions/Waivers: The state recognizes exemptionsonly for religious or health purposes. Local school boardscan grant these waivers or determine exemptions.

State Standards: The state has not developed its ownstandards for physical education.

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school dis-tricts determine the curricula, which includes the optionof using a commercial curriculum.


Online Physical Education Courses: Physical educationcredits may be earned through online physical educationcourses. Content of all online physical education coursesis determined by the online providers. Local districts canreview the online course syllabus to determine whetherthe course meets the local physical education programrequirements in order to extend the credit. All studentsare eligible, and all courses are taught by state-certifiedphysical education teachers.







The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may teach required elementaryschool physical education classes. Teachers must passPRAXIS I and PRAXIS II exams for certification.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required in order to maintain/renew one’sphysical education teacher certification or licensure. Thestate also requires professional development for physicaleducation teachers on physical education topics, compa-rable to other curricular area. No state funding is provid-ed for this professional development.

Temporary Certification: Temporary or emergency teachercertification may be granted for three years to anyoneholding a bachelor’s degree in teaching or education.




Contact Person:

Mary Thissen-Milder, Ph.D. School Improvement Specialist Health and Physical Education Minnesota Department of Education1500 HIghway 36 WestRoseville, MN 55113-4266 [email protected]

MississippiAmount of Required Physical Education:

Mississippi mandates 150 minutes of activity-based instruction per week in grades K-8. At least 50 ofthose minutes must be physical education class. The statealso mandates at least 45 minutes per week of healtheducation in grades K-8.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 0.5 Carnegie Units in physicaleducation for graduation.

Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute interscholasticsports, JROTC, marching band, or cheerleading for theirrequired physical education credit.

Exemptions/Waivers: Only physicians can grant waiversor exemptions.

State Standards: All instruction in physical education,health education and physical activity must be based onthe most current state standards provided by the StateDepartment of Education. The Mississippi PhysicalEducation Framework was last revised in 2006. [SeeState Standards for Physical Education chart for details.]School districts must comply with state standards andcomply with the competencies of the Mississippi PhysicalEducation Framework.

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. School districtshave the option of using a commercial curriculum,including Physical Best, SPARK or Fitness for Life.

Class Size: The state does not have a mandate for ateacher-to-student ratio, but recommends a ratio of 33:1for grades K-5 and a ratio of 40:1 for grades 6-12. State-recommended class size in grades K-6 is 35:1. The staterecommends that if a licensed teacher and a teacher assis-tant are present, maximum class size for physical educa-tion not exceed 70 students for grades K-6. If a licensedteacher and a teacher assistant are present, the state rec-ommends that the maximum class size should not exceed80 students for grades 7-12.


Student Assessment Requirements: The state requiresstudent assessment in physical education in grade 5 andin the high school year in which the students receivetheir Carnegie Unit. Results are not required to be sentto the state as aggregate data for the school, and individ-ual students’ results are not required to be sent to theirparents or guardians.

Fitness Testing: The state does not require the use of aparticular fitness test protocol but does require fitnesstesting in the grade in which the student receives credit.





The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the high school level only. Elemen-tary classroom teachers (generalists) may teach requiredelementary school physical education classes. A score of138 on the PRAXIS exam is required for certification.


Professional development, continuing education hours orcredits are required in to maintain/renew one’s physicaleducation teacher certification or licensure. State fundingis provided for this professional development.

Temporary Certification: Temporary or emergency certi-fication may be granted to teach at the elementary ormiddle school/junior high school level to anyone holdinga bachelor’s degree in any subject area. This certificationis valid for one year.


District Physical Education Coordinator: The state does not require each school district to have a licensedphysical educator serving as a PE coordinator. However,local school boards shall establish a local school healthcouncil for each school.

Contact Person:

Dale Dieckman ATC,CSCSPhysical Education Specialist

STATE PROFILES 37

Mississippi Department of Education Office of Healthy Schools239 North Lamar St., 6th FloorP. O. Box 771Jackson, MS [email protected]

MissouriAmount of Required Physical Education:

Missouri requires all school districts to imple-ment a minimum of 150 minutes of physical activityeach week for elementary students (grades K-6). Thestate-mandated 50 minutes of physical education perweek and mandated 20-minute daily recess may bothcount toward this 150-minute total. Schools report theamount of physical education time that they offer stu-dents in elementary school in the state’s Core Datareporting system.

The state also mandates at least 45 minutes per week ofphysical education in grades 7-8, and encourages districtsto implement at least 225 minutes of physical activityper week at this level. The state also requires high schoolsto provide physical education to students.


Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute JROTC for theirrequired physical education credit at the high school level.


State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The Grade Level Expectations forPhysical Education were last revised in 2007. [See StateStandards for Physical Education chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. School districtshave the option of using a commercial curriculum aslong as it adheres to the state standards.

Class Size: The state specifies a teacher-to-student ratiocomparable to other curricular areas


Student Assessment Requirements: The state requiresstudent assessment in physical education in grades 5 and

9. Results are sent to the state as aggregate data for theschool; it is expected that the state will soon requirereporting of individual student physical fitness assess-ment scores.

Fitness Testing: The state requires the use of theMissouri Physical Fitness Assessment Model. Physical fitness grades also are included in a student’s grade point average.





The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may not teach required elementaryschool physical education classes. A score of 153 on thePRAXIS Physical Education Content Knowledge exam isrequired for certification.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required in order to maintain/renew one’sphysical education teacher certification or licensure. Statefunding is provided to each school district for profession-al development activities, but no additional funds areprovided specifically for physical education teachers.

Temporary Certification: Temporary or emergency certi-fication may be granted to teach at the elementary ormiddle school/junior high school level to anyone holdinga bachelor’s degree in teaching or education. This certifi-cation is valid for two years.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process by providing one or moreforms of non-monetary recognition for National Board-certified teachers.

District Physical Education Coordinator: The staterequires each school district to have a licensed physicaleducator serving as a PE coordinator.

Contact Person:

Steve WilliamsConsultant for Fine Arts, Health and Physical Education,and Driver’s EducationMissouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education


205 Jefferson St., P.O. Box 480Jefferson City, MO [email protected]

MontanaAmount of Required Physical Education: Montana

mandates physical education in grades K-6, but it doesnot require daily recess. The state also mandates 225+minutes per week of physical education in grades 7-8and at the high school level.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 1.0 health-enhancement credit,with 0.5 credits earned each year, for graduation.



State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The Accreditation Standards–Student Content and Performance Standards were lastrevised in 2001. [See State Standards for PhysicalEducation chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school dis-tricts have the option of using a commercial curriculumof their choice.

Class Size: The state mandates a teacher-to-student ratiocomparable to other curricular areas


Student Assessment Requirements: The state does notrequire student assessment in physical education.However, districts have the flexibility to determine theirown requirements, which may include student assessment.








Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required to maintain/renew one’s physical education teacher certification or licensure. No state fund-ing is provided for this professional development.

Temporary Certification: Temporary or emergency certi-fication may be granted to teach at the elementary ormiddle school/junior high school level to anyone holdinga bachelor’s degree in teaching or education. This certifi-cation is valid for two years.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process by providing or facilitat-ing mentoring for teachers going through the process,providing partial funding if the teacher receives boardcertification, providing a one-time monetary bonus if theteacher receives board certification and providing one ormore forms of non-monetary recognition for NationalBoard-certified teachers.


Contact Person:

Susan CourtMontana Office of Public InstructionP.O. Box 202501Helena, MT, 59620-2501 [email protected]

NebraskaAmount of Required Physical Education: Nebraskamandates physical education in grades K-8, but it doesnot require daily recess at the elementary school level. Allhigh schools are required to provide their students withphysical education. At the high school level, all highschools must offer physical education, but it is up to localschool districts as to whether they require the students totake it. The state’s Rule 10 requires that schools complywith these regulations to receive state accreditation.

STATE PROFILES 39

High School Graduation Requirements: The stateDepartment of Education does not set graduation require-ments for the schools; this is a local control decision. Themajority of Nebraska high schools require a minimum ofone semester (1.0 credit) of physical education for gradua-tion. Schools must offer two full years of health and well-ness instruction, but local school districts determine whatstudents are required to take for graduation.

Exemptions/Waivers: Local school districts can grantwaivers or exemptions. The length of the exemptiondepends on the reason for the exemption/waiver and thelocal school district.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, modeled on the NationalStandards for Physical Education. This document is rec-ommended as guidance for local school districts; howev-er, school districts do not have to comply. The NebraskaPhysical Education Essential Learnings were last revisedin 2006. [See State Standards for Physical Educationchart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school dis-tricts have the option of creating their own curriculum,or using a commercial curriculum of their choice,including any of the following: SPARK, CATCH,Fitness for Life, Physical Best, Stay Physically Active forLife (HS) and It’s Time to Move! (MS); MichiganModel; Physical Essentials (Elem), Physical Focus (MS),Physical Dimensions (HS).

Class Size: The state does not mandate a teacher-to-stu-dent ratio for any curriculum area.

Online Physical Education Courses: The state has nopolicy on whether physical education credits may beearned through online physical education courses.





Body Mass Index (BMI): The state does not requireschools to collect students’ BMI or height and weightfor reporting purposes. Schools collect height and weight

at the beginning of each school year as part of the schoolhealth screening process, but do not have to report it.







Contact Person:

Julane Hill, DirectorCoordinated School HealthNebraska Department of Education301 Centennial Mall South, 6th FloorLincoln, NE [email protected]

NevadaAmount of Required Physical Education:

Nevada requires middle school/junior high andhigh schools to provide physical education to students,but does not specify grade levels or minutes per week ofphysical education. There is no state mandate for the ele-mentary school level and no requirement for daily recess.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 2.0 physical education creditsfor graduation. Students also must complete a 1.0 creditpersonal wellness course.

Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute JROTC, marching band, or cheerleading for their required physical education credit.

Exemptions/Waivers: The state can grant an exemption toa school district regarding physical education time or credit.


State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The Physical Education ContentStandards were last revised in 2000 and are under revi-sion again this year. [See State Standards for PhysicalEducation chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state requires the use of specificcurricula for elementary, middle school/junior high andhigh school physical education. Commercial curriculamay not be used.

Class Size: The state does not mandate a teacher-to-student ratio for physical education classes.

Online Physical Education Courses: The state allowsrequired physical education credits to be earned throughonline physical education courses.






Body Mass Index (BMI): The state requires schools tocollect students’ BMI or height and weight for a repre-sentative sample of students enrolled in grades 4, 7 and10 in the schools within the school district. In additionto those grade levels, a school district may conductexaminations of the height and weight of a representativesample of students enrolled in other grades. The HealthDivision of the Department of Health and HumanServices defines “representative sample” in collaborationwith the school districts for purposes of this requirement.


The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may teach required elementaryschool PE classes. A score of 154 on the PRAXIS I andPhysical Education: Content Knowledge and a score of149 on the Physical Education Movement FormsAnalysis and Design are required for certification.Certification must be renewed every five years.


The state requires professional development for physicaleducation teachers on physical education topics, compa-rable to other curricular areas.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state does notactively support physical education teachers to becomecertified through the NBC process.


Contact Person:

Robinette BaconSchool Health Education CoordinatorNevada Department of EducationOffice of Child Nutrition and School Health700 East Fifth St., Suite 109Carson City NV [email protected]

New HampshireAmount of Required Physical Education:

New Hampshire mandates physical education ingrades K-8, but it does not require daily recess at the ele-mentary school level. All high schools are required toprovide their students with physical education.Compliance is reported through a new system imple-mented in spring 2010.


Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute other activities fortheir required physical education credit on a limitedbasis. The state permits middle and high schools to sub-stitute in-school physical education credits for individualstudents if a) the local school board has adopted a policyapproving extended learning activities, and b) the stu-dent develops an extended learning plan whereas thelearning expectations in the plan align with the localschool’s competencies in physical education. Extendedlearning refers to learning opportunities outside of theregular school day. Broad substitutions for physical education credits (such as after school athletics in placeof physical education) are not allowed by the state.

Exemptions/Waivers: Waivers are granted for individualstudents by Commissioner’s office. The length of theexemption is determined on a case-by-case basis for indi-vidual students or schools.

STATE PROFILES 41

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, although school districts are not required to comply. The New Hampshire K-12Physical Education Guidelines were adopted in 2005.[See State Standards for Physical Education chart fordetails.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school dis-tricts have the option of using a commercial curriculumof their choice.


Online Physical Education Courses: The state allowsrequired physical education credits to be earned throughonline physical education courses. PersonalFitness/Wellness is currently offered online, and is taughtonly by state-certified physical education teachers.Student eligibility is determined by local decision andlocal policy.

Student Assessment Requirements: The state requiresstudent assessment in physical education every year,grades 1-12. Assessment tools and processes are deter-mined at the local level. No state-level reporting isrequired. Assessment practices recommended by the stateare classroom-based and student-centered.






The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may not teach required elementaryschool physical education classes. A score of 518 on thePRAXIS I exam is required for certification.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required to maintain/renew one’s physicaleducation teacher certification or licensure. The state alsorequires professional development for physical educationteachers on physical education topics, comparable to

other curricular areas. No state funding is provided forthis professional development.



Contact Person:

Marcia McCaffreySchool Improvement New Hampshire Department of Education 101 Pleasant St. Concord, NH 03229 [email protected]

New JerseyAmount of Required Physical Education: New

Jersey mandates at least 150 minutes of health, safetyand physical education per week in all grades, 1-12, butdoes not require daily recess at the elementary schoollevel. The NJ Quality Single Accountability System isthe state’s school district evaluation process, which occursevery three years. It requires districts to have a health andphysical education curriculum aligned to the most recentversion of New Jersey’s Core Standards and looks atinstruction and supervision across all subject areasincluding physical education.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 3.75 physical education creditsper year (equal to 150 minutes per week) for each year ofattendance. For students who complete a traditionalfour-year high school program, this means attaining aminimum of 15 total credits—3.75 credits for each ofthe four years in high school.

Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute other activitiesfor their required physical education credits. Option 2of the graduation requirements permits alternative activ-ities for any subject area. The options for substitutionare a local decision.


State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all publicschool districts must comply. The New Jersey CoreCurriculum Content Standards for ComprehensiveHealth and Physical Education were last revised in June


2009. [See State Standards for Physical Education chartfor details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. School districtshave the option of using any curriculum, including com-mercial options.

Class Size: The state does not specify a teacher-to-stu-dent ratio.

Online Physical Education Courses: Option 2 of thegraduation requirements permits alternative activities forany subject area, which could include substituting onlinephysical education courses for required physical educationcredits. The options for substitution are a local decision.





Body Mass Index (BMI): The state requires schools tocollect students’ BMI or height and weight once per yearin grades 1-12. Parents or guardians are notified of spe-cific health concerns.


The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers who wish to teach at the elementary,middle school/junior high or high school levels. The certi-fication is a K-12 licensure. Elementary classroom teachers(generalists with K-5 certification) may teach required ele-mentary school physical education classes as long as thoseclasses are not more than one-half of their teaching assign-ment. A score of 148 on the PRAXIS PE Content 10091or a score of 151 on the Health/PE 20856 exam isrequired for the physical education certification.


100 hours of professional development, continuing edu-cation hours or credits are required, but the local districtdecides the penalty (if any) for not fulfilling this require-ment. The state also requires professional developmentfor physical education teachers on physical educationtopics, comparable to other curricular areas. State fund-ing is not provided for this professional development.



Contact Person:

Linda MorseCoordinator, School Health Unit/ Health and PhysicalEducation StandardsNew Jersey Department of EducationP.O. Box 500Trenton, NJ [email protected]

New MexicoAmount of Required Physical Education: New

Mexico mandates physical education in grades K-12, butit does not require daily recess at the elementary schoollevel (this is a local option). The state requires writtenmandates from the school districts that these require-ments are being met. Due to a legislative appropriation,approximately 200 elementary schools have hired alicensed elementary physical education teacher to teachthe program.


Substitutions: The state permit school districts to designelective courses to satisfy any of the specified creditsrequired for graduation, including physical education.The local board must approve this process on a course-by-course basis that ultimately requires approval of thestate secretary of education. There are no direct substitu-tions for physical education requirements.

Exemptions/Waivers: The state secretary of educationmay approve a district superintendent’s request to waivethe high school physical education graduation require-ment for a student, provided the student has a perma-nent disability or chronic condition that limits physicalactivity, as noted by a physician.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, to which all school districtsmust comply. The K-12 Physical Education ContentStandards with Benchmarks and Performance Standardswere last revised in 2005. [See State Standards forPhysical Education chart for details.]

STATE PROFILES 43

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school dis-tricts have the option of writing their own curriculum orusing a commercial curriculum of their choice, as long asthe curriculum aligns with the state’s standards.


Online Physical Education Courses: The state does notrecognize online physical education courses.

Student Assessment Requirements: The state requiresstudent assessment in physical education in all grades 1-12.Use of assessment data is determined at the local level.


State Comprehensive Assessment Test: The state has astate-standards-based assessment test for graduation, butphysical education is not one of the subjects assessed.

Education Report Card: The state does not have an education report card for physical education.





Professional development continuing education hours orcredit requirements are determined at the local level.



Contact Person:

Derek IrionPhysical Education Coordinator5600 Eagle Rock Ave. NE, Room 201Albuquerque, NM [email protected]

New YorkAmount of Required Physical Education:

New York mandates at least 120 minutes of physical education per week in grades K-6, but does not requiredaily recess. Students in grades K-3 must have daily physical education, and students in grades 4-6 must havephysical education at least three times per week. The statealso mandates at least 90 minutes per week of physicaleducation in grades 7-12 and requires all schools, includ-ing high schools, to provide physical education to all stu-dents. At the secondary level, this must be provided atleast three times per week in one semester and two timesper week in the other semester.


Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute interscholasticsports for their required physical education credits.However, each student must first demonstrate appropri-ate levels of knowledge, skills and physical fitness.

Exemptions/Waivers: Exemptions are not allowed.However, a student who has completed all other require-ments to graduate in less than eight semesters does nothave to return to complete the remaining physical education requirement.

State Standards: The state has developed its own standards for physical education, with which all schooldistricts must comply. The Learning Standards of NewYork State: Physical Education Learning Standards werelast revised in 1996, and is currently cycling throughreviews. [See State Standards for Physical Educationchart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. School districtshave the option of using any curriculum, including commercial options, which meet specific guidelines setby the state.



Student Assessment Requirements: The state requiresstudent assessment in physical education every year in


grades 1-12, evaluating performance of motor/movementskills, physical fitness levels, knowledge of physical education content, participation in physical activity out-side of physical education class, and personal and socialresponsibility in physical education.


State Comprehensive Assessment Test: The state hasan optional, not required, comprehensive assessment testfor graduation.


Body Mass Index (BMI): The state requires schools to col-lect students’ BMI or height and weight, with results sentto the Department of Health. BMI collection is under thedirection of school health services and not physical educa-tion. It is just being initiated for grades 2, 4, 7 and 10 andin public schools outside of New York City.


The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the middle school/junior high and high school levels. Elementary classroom teachers(generalists) may teach required elementary school physical education classes under the direction and super-vision of a certified physical education teacher. A licen-sure exam is required for certification.


New York has two certifications: Initial (must achieve aMS within five years of their BS); and Professional (con-tinuously valid with completion of required professionaldevelopment hours on a five-year professional-develop-ment cycle). For the latter, professional developmentcontinuing education hours or credits are required inorder to maintain/renew one’s physical education teachercertification or licensure. State funding is not providedfor this professional development.


District Physical Education Coordinator: The staterequires each school district to have a licensed physicaleducator serving as a PE coordinator. This coordinatormust also have administrative certification.

Contact Person:

Trish KocialskiAssociate in Physical EducationNYSED – Room 320EB

89 Washington AvenueAlbany, NY [email protected]

North CarolinaAmount of Required Physical Education: NorthCarolina mandates physical education in grades K-5 andhealthful living education (physical education and healtheducation) in grades 6-12, but it does not specifyrequired days or minutes per week for elementary ormiddle schools. The state also requires one unit ofhealthful living education for high school graduationwhich includes one semester of physical education.Schools are expected to follow the North CarolinaStandard Course of Study for healthful living, whichincludes teaching and learning of behaviors that con-tribute to a healthful lifestyle and improved quality oflife for all students.

High School Graduation Requirements: A minimum ofone credit of healthful living, which reflects both healtheducation and physical education, is required for gradua-tion from a North Carolina public high school.


Exemptions/Waivers: Local school districts may allow awaiver or exemption under special circumstances thatprohibit a student from participating in physical activity.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The NC Standard Course of Study:Healthful Living was last revised in 2006. [See StateStandards for Physical Education chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. School districtshave the option of selecting any curriculum, includingcommercial options, as long as it meets the objectivesoutlined in the standard course of study.




STATE PROFILES 45


State Comprehensive Assessment Test: The state doesnot have a required comprehensive assessment test forgraduation.




The state requires licensure of physical education teach-ers at the elementary, middle school/junior high andhigh school levels. Teachers of health education musthold a health education K-12 teaching license (NCTeaching License 097 or 098); teachers of physical edu-cation must hold a physical education K-12 teacherlicense (NC 090). Elementary classroom teachers (gener-alists) may not teach required elementary school physicaleducation classes. The PRAXIS exam is required forlicensure. By June 30, 2010, a new dual license in healthand physical education will be in effect.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required in order to maintain/renew one’sphysical education teacher certification or licensure. Thestate also requires professional development for physicaleducation teachers on physical education topics, compa-rable to other curricular areas. All content areas (includ-ing physical education) require three CEUs out of therequired 15 per renewal cycle to be in the teacher con-tent area. No state funding is provided for this profes-sional development.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process by providing an ongoinghigher level of pay to all teachers who are NationalBoard-certified. North Carolina is home to moreNational Board-certified physical education teachers thanany state. In North Carolina, there are more NationalBoard-certified teachers in physical education than inany other content area.


Contact Person:

David GardnerSection Chief for Healthy SchoolsNC Department of Public Instruction

6349 Mail Service CenterRaleigh, NC [email protected]

North DakotaAmount of Required Physical Education: North Dakotamandates specific minutes of physical education perweek in grades 1-6, varying per grade up to 119 minutes,and requires daily recess. The state also mandates at least45 minutes per week of physical education in grades 6-8and requires high schools to provide physical educationto students.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 0.5 physical education creditsfor graduation and 0.5 health credits for graduation.However, if 0.5 units in health is not an option in anindividual school, then 1.0 unit in physical education isrequired for graduation.

Substitutions: The state permits school districts or schools to allow students to substitute physical education specialized courses for their required physicaleducation credit.


State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, though school districts donot have to comply. The North Dakota PE Content andAchievement Standards were last revised in 2008, and arecurrently under review. [See State Standards for PhysicalEducation chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. School districtshave the option of using commercial curriculum, includ-ing SPARK or CATCH.





State Comprehensive Assessment Test: The state does not have a required comprehensive assessment testfor graduation.


(120 hours of course instruction) in order to meet thegraduation requirement.

Substitutions: The state permits school districts the useof credit flexibility in order to earn physical educationcredit.

Exemptions/Waivers: Local school districts may allow a waiver.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education. These standards may beused by local districts as a guide and reference in writinglocal curriculum. In December of 2007, the state boardof education adopted the six NASPE standards as thefoundation for the development of benchmarks and indi-cators. In June of 2009, the state board adopted thebenchmarks and indicators along with the previouslyadopted standards which became the Ohio AcademicContent Standards for Physical Education.

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. School districtshave the option of using commercial curriculum.


Online Physical Education Courses: The state allowsonline courses to earn physical education credit. Studenteligibility for this option is approved by the local district.

Student Assessment Requirements: The state does notrequire student assessment in physical education.However, schools do perform assessments as determinedat the local level for physical education.







The state requires licensure or certification of physicaleducation teachers at the high school level. Physical education specialists may hold a P-12 license/certificate




The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may not teach required elementaryschool physical education classes.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required to renew any North Dakota teachingteacher’s certificate.

Temporary Certification: Temporary or emergency certi-fication may be granted to teach physical education at theelementary or middle school/junior high school level toanyone holding a valid North Dakota teaching certificate.



Contact Person:

Judy ThomsonProgram ManagerCoordinated School HealthDepartment of Health600 East Boulevard Ave., Dept. 301Bismarck, ND [email protected]

OhioAmount of Required Physical Education: Ohio requireselementary, middle school/junior high and high schoolsto provide physical education to students. Recess is notrequired at the elementary school level. In grades K-8,schools are to provide physical education as a part oftheir course of study. Schools may assign instructionaltime in a manner that best meets the learning needs oftheir students. The school district or school shall provideevery student with opportunities to acquire the knowl-edge and skills to meet local course of study objectives.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 0.5 physical education credits

STATE PROFILES 47

or a 7-12 license/certificate and can teach the appropri-ate grade levels. Elementary classroom teachers (general-ists) may teach K-8 physical education classes. A score of152 on the PRAXIS exam is required in order to becomea licensed physical education teacher. The state licensemust be renewed every five years.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required to maintain/renew one’s physical education teacher licensure or certification. No statefunding is provided for this professional development.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state does nothave funding and personnel to support teachers to becomecertified through the NBC process.


Contact Person:

Lisa Lyle HenryPhysical Education ConsultantOhio Department of Education25 South Front St., Mail Stop 509Columbus, OH [email protected]

OklahomaAmount of Required Physical Education: Oklahomamandates at least 60 minutes of physical education perweek in grades K-5 plus an additional 60 minutes ofphysical activity, and daily recess may be counted in this60 additional minutes per week. The state also requiresmiddle school/junior high and high schools to providephysical education to all students, which may includeathletics. These mandates are enforced through annualaccreditation reporting.

High School Graduation Requirements: The state doesnot specify physical education credits for graduation.

Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute interscholasticsports, marching band, or cheerleading for their requiredphysical education credit.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education through Priority AcademicStudent Skills.


Class Size: The state does not mandate a teacher-to-student ratio comparable to other curricular areas



Fitness Testing: The state does not require the use of aparticular fitness test protocol; however, a pilot programwill be instituted in certain schools beginning with the2010-2011 school year.

State Comprehensive Assessment Test: The state has an educational assessment test for graduation, but physical education is not included in this test.

Education Report Card: The state has an educationreport card for each school, and specific subject areas arerated individually. However, physical education is notincluded as one of the subject areas.



The state requires physical education certification orlicensure of physical education teachers at the elemen-tary, middle school/junior high and high school levels.


No professional development continuing educationhours or credits are required in order to maintain/renewone’s physical education teacher certification or licensure.



Contact Person:

Robert McPhersonDirector for Physical Education/HealthOklahoma State Department of Education2500 North Lincoln BoulevardOklahoma City, OK 73105-4599405-521-6646 [email protected]

OregonAmount of Required Physical Education: The

state requires high schools to provide physical education


to students. Oregon does not have a law mandating phys-ical education minutes in grades K-8. However, HouseBill 3141, passed in 2007 but not effective until 2017-18, will mandate minutes for K-8 students. Oregon isalso collecting data on current levels of physical educa-tion minutes in grades K-8 (currently set by local dis-tricts) and assessing current school facilities. The statehas also been providing districts with competitive grantmoney to hire physical education teachers to reach theminute requirements.


Substitutions: The state permits school districts or schools to allow students to substitute inter-scholasticsports and community sports for their required physical education credit. Each district develops its ownpolicies and procedures for this process. It is on a stu-dent-by-student basis and is tied to Oregon’s physicaleducation standards.

Exemptions/Waivers: Oregon is a local control state.Each district’s school board develops their own policiesand procedures for granting student exemptions/waiversfor physical education.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The Oregon Physical EducationStandards were last revised during the 2005-06 schoolyear. [See State Standards for Physical Education chartfor details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh and high school physical education. Since Oregonis a local control state, each district selects its own curric-ula either off the Oregon Board of Education’s approvedlist or through an independent adoption process.

Class Size: The state does not mandate a teacher-to-student ratio.

Online Physical Education Courses: The state allowsrequired physical education credits to be earned throughonline physical education courses. Courses include com-prehensive physical education (address all state or nation-al standards); personal fitness/wellness; sports (e.g., golf );and weight training. Each district sets its own require-ments for online physical education. Oregon’s DistanceLearning Charter schools also offer a variety of optionsfor physical education. All online courses must be tied toOregon’s physical education standards.

Student Assessment Requirements: The state does notrequire student assessment in physical education. This isa local decision.







The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the middle school/junior high andhigh school levels. Elementary classroom teachers (gener-alists) may teach required elementary school physicaleducation classes. For certification, teachers must takethe PRAXIS exam and pass all three sections, achieving acomposite score of 446. Certification must be renewedevery three years.



Temporary Certification: Temporary or emergency certi-fication may be granted to teach physical education atthe elementary, middle school/junior high and highschool levels.



Contact Person:

Tanya FrisendahlHealth and Physical Education SpecialistOregon Department of Education255 Capitol St. NESalem, OR [email protected]

STATE PROFILES 49

PennsylvaniaAmount of Required Physical Education: Pennsylvaniamandates physical education in grades K-6, but it doesnot require daily recess. The state also mandates thatmiddle school/junior high schools and high schools pro-vide physical education to students. Planned instructionis mandated for every student every year in the primary(generally K-3) and intermediate (generally 4-6 butdependent on the district configuration) levels. Plannedinstruction must be provided to every student in themiddle school program. It is not mandated every year.The local school district determines the grade level.Planned instruction must be provided to every student inthe senior high school program. It is not mandated everyyear. The local school district determines the grade leveland the number of minutes per week. These are localcontrol issues.

High School Graduation Requirements: The statefocuses on the standards rather than physical educationcredits for graduation. The state requires course comple-tion and grades and the results of local assessmentsaligned to the academic standards.



State Standards: The state has developed its own standards for physical education, with which all schooldistricts must comply. The Academic Standards forHealth, Safety and Physical Education were last revisedin 2003. [See State Standards for Physical Educationchart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh and high school physical education. This is a localcontrol issue. Local school districts have the option ofusing any curriculum, as long as the program aligns withthe Pennsylvania state standards.


Online Physical Education Courses: The state allowsonline courses for physical education credits but onlyCyber Charter School students are eligible to take onlinecourses. Currently, a course in comprehensive physicaleducation (addressing all state or national standards) isoffered online, and must be taught by a state-certifiedphysical education teacher.

Student Assessment Requirements: Schools must havean assessment system in place to monitor progress on thestandards. Results are used by school districts to deter-mine progress on the Health, Safety and PhysicalEducation Standards. The standard benchmarks aregrades 3, 6, 9, and 12 but may be assessed earlier.Formative assessment is expected to be ongoing withinthe physical education class.




Body Mass Index (BMI): The state requires schools tocollect students’ BMI or height and weight once peryear in grades 1-12. Results are sent to the state as aggre-gate data for the school. Individual student results aresent to the parents or guardians with an explanation ofthe BMI, the BMI score, BMI classification and, if nec-essary, recommendations to further discuss the resultswith a family physician.


The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/junior high and high school levels. Elementary class-room teachers (generalists) may teach required elemen-tary school phyhsical education classes within a self-contained classroom.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required in order to maintain one’s health andphysical education teacher certification. Teachers mustobtain 180 hours of professional development over afive-year period. The state requires that professionaldevelopment be provided in the area of assignment.Physical education teachers must be provided profession-al development on physical education topics, comparableto other curricular areas. A certification can become inac-tive if professional development requirements are notmet. Upon completion of the professional developmentrequirements the certification is reactivated. State fundingis provided to the schools for professional development.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages all teachers to become certified through theNBC process. Physical education, however, is not one ofthe priority disciplines.



Contact Person:

Shirley A. BlackHealth & Physical Education AdvisorPA Department of Education333 Market St., 8th FloorHarrisburg, PA [email protected]

Rhode IslandAmount of Required Physical Education: The

state mandates physical education in elementary school,middle school/junior high school and high school.Rhode Island mandates an average of 100 minutes perweek of health and physical education as required in theRhode Island Rules and Regulations For School HealthPrograms and the Rhode Island Physical EducationFramework. Recess, free play, and after-school activitiesare not counted as physical education.

High School Graduation Requirements: The state doesnot mandate the number of high school physical educa-tion credits that are required for a student to graduate.



State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The Rhode Island PhysicalEducation Framework was last revised in 2003 and hasbeen endorsed by the Rhode Island Board of Regents toguide physical education curriculum, instruction andassessment. According to the state law (RI 2008 PublicLaws, Chapters 08-254 & 08-463), by September 2012,school physical education curricula must be aligned withthe standards and performance indicators. [See StateStandards for Physical Education chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh and high school physical education. Local schoolsystems have the option of using a commercial curricu-lum such as SPARK or CATCH.

Class Size: There is no state mandate regarding a maxi-mum teacher-to-student ratio in elementary, middleschool/junior high, or high school physical education classes.




State Comprehensive Assessment Test: The state has a comprehensive assessment test for graduation, butphysical education is not included in this test.




The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/juniorhigh and high school levels. Elementary classroom teachers(generalists) may not teach required elementary schoolphysical education classes. The PRAXIS II exam isrequired for certification. Certification must be renewedevery three years.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required in order to maintain/renew one’s phys-ical education teacher certification or licensure. No statefunding is provided for this professional development.

Temporary Certification: Temporary or emergency certi-fication may be granted for a three-year period to teachphysical education at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Applicants for a tempo-rary certification must meet the specific requirements ofthe Rhode Island Department of Education.



Contact Person:

Dr. Midge SabatiniManager, Coordinated School Health ProgramRhode Island Department of Education255 Westminster St.Providence, RI [email protected]

STATE PROFILES 51

South CarolinaAmount of Required Physical Education: South

Carolina mandates at least 60 minutes of physical educa-tion per week in grades K-5, but it does not require dailyrecess. The state also mandates that high schools providephysical education to students. There is no requirementfor middle school/junior high schools. Elementaryschools must submit a survey and program assessment onthese requirements. Middle schools must submit a pro-gram assessment. High schools are assessed by the SchoolAdministration Student Information (SASI, now POW-ERSCHOOL) atom (component) and submit to a pro-gram assessment.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 1.0 physical education credit, includ-ing a 0.5 credit personal wellness course for graduation.



State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The South Carolina AcademicStandards for Physical Education were last revised in2008. [See State Standards for Physical Education chartfor details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Commercial cur-ricula may be used.

Class Size: The state mandates a 40:1 student-to-teacherratio, which is not comparable to other curricular areas.

Online Physical Education Courses: Physical educationcredits may be earned through online physical educationcourses. The following are currently offered online: com-prehensive physical education (addresses all state ornational standards), personal fitness/wellness, sports (e.g.,golf ), and weight training. All students are eligible.

Student Assessment Requirements: The state requiresstudent assessment in physical education in grades 2, 5,8 and 9. Students’ performance of motor/movementskills, physical fitness levels, knowledge of physical edu-cation content and participation in physical activity out-side of physical education class are assessed. Results areused to evaluate program effectiveness.

Fitness Testing: The state requires the use ofFITNESSGRAM in the South Carolina Physical

Education Assessment and FITNESSGRAM reports aresent to parents or guardians of students in grades 5, 8and high school.

State Comprehensive Assessment Test: The state has acomprehensive assessment test for graduation, but physi-cal education achievement is not measured in this test.


Body Mass Index (BMI): The state requires schools tocollect body composition, students’ BMI or height andweight once per year in grades 5, 8 and 9. Individual stu-dent results are sent to parents or guardians in aFITNESSGRAM/ACTIVITYGRAM.


The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may not teach required elementaryschool physical education classes. Grades of 146 on con-tent knowledge and 160 on the video portion of thePRAXIS II exam are required for certification, whichmust be renewed every five years.


Professional development, continuing education hours or credits are required in order to maintain/renew one’sphysical education teacher certification or licensure. Nostate funding is provided for this professional development.

Temporary Certification: Temporary or emergency certi-fication may be granted to teach at the elementary, mid-dle school/junior high school or high school level to any-one completing the Program of Alternative Certificationfor Educators program. This certification is valid forthree years.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process by providing partialfunding if the teacher receives board certification, andprovide an on-going higher level of pay to all teacherswho are National Board-certified.


Contact Person:

James Strainer, PhDPhysical EducationOffice of Standards and SupportSouth Carolina Department of Education1429 Senate St., Room 802-C


Columbia, SC [email protected]

South DakotaAmount of Required Physical Education:

The state does not mandate physical education in ele-mentary school or middle school/junior high school. Thestate mandates physical education or health education inhigh school, but it does not specify the grade or year ofparticipation during a student’s high school tenure.




State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education. The South DakotaPhysical Education Standards were last revised in 2000.[See State Standards for Physical Education chart fordetails.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh and high school physical education. Commercialcurricula may be used by local districts.

Class Size: The state does not mandate a teacher-to-student ratio for physical education classes.

Online Physical Education Courses: The state allowsonline courses, which currently include comprehensivephysical education (addressing all state or national stan-dards) and personal fitness/wellness. The courses aretaught by state-certified physical education teachers.Students must request permission and be approved totake online courses.




State Comprehensive Assessment Test: The state does not have a required comprehensive assessment testfor graduation.




The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may not teach required elementaryschool PE classes. A score of 140 on the PRAXIS andPRAXIS II exams are required for certification. The cer-tification must be renewed every five years.



National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process by providing full fundingif the teacher receives board certification.


Contact Person:

Karen KeyserHealth and Physical Education CoordinatorCoordinated School Health SD Department of Education700 Governors DrivePierre, SD 57501605-773-6808 [email protected]

TennesseeAmount of Required Physical Education: Tennesseemandates health and physical education in grades K-8through Minimum Rules and Regulations from the StateBoard of Education (see other notes below).Additionally, the state mandates 0.5 credits of physicaleducation in high school, but it does not specify thegrade or year of participation during a student's highschool tenure. There are no state-mandated timerequirements for physical education. However, each localeducation agency must integrate a minimum of 90 min-utes of physical activity per week into the instructionalschool day for elementary and secondary school students.

STATE PROFILES 53

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 0.5 physical education creditsfor graduation. Students must also complete a 1.0 creditpersonal wellness course, Lifetime Wellness. The coursemust be based on the state curriculum standards andmust integrate concepts from the areas of health andphysical fitness.

Substitutions: Participation in marching band andinterscholastic athletics may not be substituted for thisrequirement. Credit earned in two years of JROTC maybe substituted for the wellness requirement provided thelocal board of education has complied with the require-ments of the state board of education

Exemptions/Waivers: Exemptions and waivers are not allowed.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. These were last revised in 2008.[See State Standards for Physical Education chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh and high school physical education. Commercialcurricula, including SPARK, CATCH, and MichiganModel, may be used by local districts.

Class Size: The state does not specify a maximum stu-dent-to-teacher ratio for physical education classes.

Online Physical Education Courses: The state does notallow physical education credits to be earned throughonline courses.





Body Mass Index (BMI): The state requires schools tocollect students’ BMI or height and weight once per yearin grades 2, 4, 6, 8 and 9. Results are sent to the state ascongregate data for the school district and this informa-tion is shared publically. Individual student results aresent to each student’s parents or guardians, along with awritten screening guide explaining the results.


The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/juniorhigh and high school levels. Elementary classroom teachers(generalists) may not teach required elementary schoolphysical education classes. The PRAXIS exam is requiredfor certification.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required in order to maintain/renew one’sphysical education teacher certification or licensure. Statefunding is provided for this professional development.



District Physical Education Coordinator: The state does not require each school district to have a licensedphysical educator serving as a PE coordinator. Thedepartment of education is required to hire a schoolhealth coordinator and specialist in physical educationthrough the Coordinated School Health Program.

Other Notes: The only requirements/guidelines for phys-ical education in elementary and middle school arefound in the Minimum Rules and Regulations from theState Board of Education: Health and PhysicalEducation, Grades K-8. The health education and physi-cal education programs, provided annually, must bebased on state curriculum standards and be developmen-tally appropriate with instruction focusing on activitieswhich will promote good health habits and enhancephysical fitness.

Contact Person:

Rebecca Johns-Wommack, Ed.D.Executive Director, Office of Coordinated School HealthTennessee Department of EducationOffice of Coordinated School Health710 James Robertson ParkwayAndrew Johnson Tower, 6th FloorNashville, TN [email protected]

TexasAmount of Required Physical Education:

Texas mandates physical education Texas EssentialKnowledge and Skills (TEKS)-based instruction to be


offered at each elementary and middle school grade level,but the format is flexible. The state also requires that highschools provide their students with physical education.

Texas mandates at least 135 minutes of moderate or vig-orous structured physical activity per week in elementaryschool (grades K-5, or K-6, depending on the district),but it does not required daily recess. Full day kinder-garten students, and to the extent practicable, PK stu-dents in half day programs, are to participate in moder-ate or vigorous physical activity for 30 minutes each day.The state also mandates at least 30 minutes per day ofstructured moderate-to-vigorous structured physicalactivity in junior high (grades 6-8 or 7-8, depending onthe district).

With the exception of kindergarten, physical activitymay or may not be included in the physical educationcurriculum. However, starting in 2010, school districtsare required to ensure that at least 50% of the physicaleducation class includes actual physical activity.


Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute inter-scholasticsports, community sports, JROTC, marching band,cheerleading, drill team, any athletic team participationfor their required physical education credit.

Exemptions/Waivers: The state board of educationapproves substitutions, not exemptions or waivers.School districts must request approval from the statecommissioner of education for off-campus physical education substitutions. Local school districts make deci-sions to determine which courses and activities meetstate guidelines and grant substitutions or equivalencycredits as needed.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The Texas Essential Knowledge andSkills (TEKS) were last revised in 1998. [See StateStandards for Physical Education chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh and high school physical education. However, allcurricula must be sequential, developmentally appropri-ate, and designed, implemented and evaluated to enablestudents to develop the motor, self-management, andother skills, knowledge, attitudes and confidence neces-sary to participate in physical activity throughout life.Each school district must also establish specific objec-tives and goals the district intends to accomplish

through the physical education curriculum. Local schoolsystems have the option of using the CATCH commer-cial curriculum.

Class Size: The state specifies a student-to-teacher ratioof 45:1 for physical education classes, which is not com-parable to other curricular areas.

Online Physical Education Courses: The state allowsrequired physical education credits to be earned throughonline physical education courses. Foundations ofPersonal Fitness, a course on personal fitness and well-ness, is open to students who request permission and areapproved to take online courses. All online courses pro-vided through the TxVSN must be taught by teacherswith Texas certification in the course subject area andgrade level.

Student Assessment Requirements: The state requiresstudent assessment in physical fitness every year startingin grade 3 and continuing through grade 12. Physical fit-ness levels are measured and results are sent to the state ascongregate data for the district and may be shared pub-licly. Individual student results are sent to parents orguardians. The data may also be used for research studies.

Fitness Testing: The state requires schooldistricts/schools to assess students’ physical fitness levelsusing the FITNESSGRAM.


State Comprehensive Assessment Test: The state has acomprehensive assessment test for graduation, but physi-cal education is not measured in this test.


Body Mass Index (BMI): The state requires schools tocollect students’ BMI or height and weight.


The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/juniorhigh and high school levels. Elementary classroom teachers(generalists) may teach required elementary school PEclasses. Evidence of “necessary skills and knowledge” mustbe documented through in-service records, seminar atten-dance records, or transcripts of college courses. Teacherscertified in other course content areas may elect to take arequired exam for PE certification.

Temporary Certification: Temporary/emergency teachercertification to teach physical education is available.

STATE PROFILES 55


No professional development continuing educationhours or credits are required in order to maintain/renewone’s physical education teacher certification or licensure.



Contact Person:

Phyllis E. Simpson, Ph.D.Health and Physical EducationTexas Education AgencyDivision of Curriculum1701 N. Congress Ave.Austin, TX [email protected]

UtahAmount of Required Physical Education:

Utah mandates physical education in grades K-6, but itdoes not require daily recess. The state also mandates aminimum of 225+ minutes per week of physical educa-tion in grades 7-8 and a minimum of 225+ minutes perweek for three years in high school.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 1.5 physical education creditsfor graduation, which includes a 0.5 credit personal well-ness course, Fitness for Life. Students are also required tocomplete a 0.5 credit Health Education course.

Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute two seasons ofinterscholastic sports participation for a one-time, 0.5physical education credit. Substitutions for the Fitnessfor Life requirement are not permitted.

Exemptions/Waivers: Exemptions are governed by statecore curriculum guidelines and may be granted only formedical reasons as outlined in writing by a physician.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. This is called the Utah State Officeof Education Physical Education Core Curriculum, withthe elementary school version last revised in 2008 andsecondary version last revised in 2007. [See StateStandards for Physical Education chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state requires the use of specificcurricula for elementary, middle school/junior high andhigh school physical education, all of which contain atechnology component. The elementary school curricu-lum specifically prohibits dodge ball as physical educa-tion or activity. Local school systems also have the optionof using a commercial curriculum.

Class Size: The state mandates a 40:1 student-to-teacherratio, which is not comparable to other curricular areas.

Online Physical Education Courses: The state allowsrequired physical education credits to be earned throughonline physical education courses. A course in personalfitness and wellness is currently offered. All students areeligible to take online courses, which are taught only bystate-certified physical education teachers.


Fitness Testing: The state recommends the use ofFITNESSGRAM for school districts/schools whichassess students’ physical fitness levels.





The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may teach required elementaryschool physical education classes. A score of 152 on thePRAXIS exam is required for certification. This certifica-tion must be renewed every five years.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required in order to maintain/renew one’sphysical education teacher certification or licensure. Statefunding is provided for this professional development.

Temporary Certification: Temporary/emergency teachercertification to teach physical education is available inmiddle school/junior high and high school. This may begranted for up to two years to anyone holding a bache-lor’s degree in any subject area and who have earned aminimum of nine hours of physical education credit.




Contact Person:

Frank H. WojtechHealth and Physical Education SpecialistUtah State Office of Education250 East 500 SouthP.O. 144200Salt Lake City, UT [email protected]

VermontAmount of Required Physical Education: Vermont

mandates physical education in grades K-12, but it doesnot require daily recess at the elementary school level.


Substitutions: The state does not permit school districtsor schools to allow students to substitute other activitiesfor their required physical education credits.

Exemptions/Waivers: The state oversees exemptions andwaivers, but there are currently none on file. The length ofthe waiver depends on the individual proposal submitted.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, which are to be addressedand assessed in all school districts. The GradeExpectations for Vermont’s Framework of Standards andLearning Opportunities–Physical Education were lastrevised in 2004. [See State Standards for PhysicalEducation chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school sys-tems have the option of using a commercial curriculum;the state does not collect information on what, if any,commercial curricula are used.


Online Physical Education Courses: The state does nothave a position on whether physical education creditsmay be earned through online physical education cours-es. This is a local decision.

Student Assessment Requirements: The state requiresstudent assessment in physical education every year ingrades 1-12. Performance of motor/movement skills,physical fitness levels, knowledge of physical educationcontent, participation in physical activity outside ofphysical education class, and personal and socialresponsibility in physical education are assessed. Datause is determined by the local school.


State Comprehensive Assessment Test: Fitness stan-dards are to be addressed and assessed as part of the 1.5credits required for graduation. No additional fitnessassessment or specific curriculum is required.




The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may not teach required elementaryschool physical education classes. All Vermont educationlicensure candidates must pass each of three pre-profes-sional skills tests (PRAXIS I). In addition, a score of 147on the 0091 (multiple choice) section or 154 on the0092 (essay) section of the PRAXIS II physical educationexam is required for certification.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required in order to maintain/renew one’sphysical education teacher certification or licensure. Thestate offers (but does not require) professional develop-ment for physical education teachers on physical educa-tion topics, comparable to other curricular areas. No statefunding is provided for this professional development.




STATE PROFILES 57

Contact Person:

Lindsay SimpsonPhysical Education ConsultantVermont Department of Education120 State St.Montpelier, VT [email protected]

VirginiaAmount of Required Physical Education: Virginia man-dates physical education in grades K-7, and requires dailyrecess in elementary school. The state requires all schooldistricts to implement a minimum of 150 minutes ofphysical activity each week for elementary students, butthis may be any combination of physical education classes,extracurricular athletics, or other programs and physicalactivities deemed appropriate by the local school board.

The state also requires that high schools provide studentswith physical education. These rules are enforced throughthe Code of Virginia and Board Regulations.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 2.0 physical education creditsfor graduation, with 1.0 credit given per school year.



State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The Physical Education Standards ofLearning for Virginia Public Schools were last revised in2008. [See State Standards for Physical Education chartfor details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh or high school physical education. Local school sys-tems have the option of using a commercial curriculumof their choice.

Class Size: The state mandates a teacher-to-studentratio, but it is not comparable to other curricular areas.

Online Physical Education Courses: The state allowsrequired physical education credits to be earned throughonline courses. Content must align with the PhysicalEducation Standards of Learning for Virginia PublicSchools. The courses are a local decision, developed byindividual school divisions.

Student Assessment Requirements: The state requiresstudent assessment in physical education every year ingrades 1-12. Results are sent to the state as congregatedata for the school, and individual results are sent toeach student’s parent or guardian. The assessment meas-ures performance of motor/movement skills, physical fit-ness levels, knowledge of physical education content,participation in physical activity outside of physical education class and personal and social responsibility inphysical education.







The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may teach required elementaryschool physical education classes. The PRAXIS exam isrequired for certification, which must be renewed everyfive years.



National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process by providing or facilitat-ing mentoring for teachers going through the process,and providing partial funding if the teacher receivesboard certification. The local schools may also providefurther incentives.

District Physical Education Coordinator: The staterequires each school district to have a licensed physicaleducator serving as a PE coordinator.


Other Notes: The state is currently developing a state specific physical fitness test, curriculum guide, and newquality physical education standards to include adapted physical education.

Contact Person:

Vanessa WigandPrincipal Specialist for Driver Education, Health Educationand Physical EducationDepartment of EducationP.O. Box 2120Richmond, VA [email protected]

WashingtonAmount of Required Physical Education:

Washington mandates an average of 100 minutes of physical education per week in grades K-6, but it doesnot require daily recess. The state also mandates an aver-age of 100 minutes per week of physical education ingrades 7-8 and 2.0 credits in high school.

High School Graduation Requirements: The staterequires students to earn 2.0 health and fitness educationcredits for graduation.

Substitutions: The state permits school districts orschools to allow students to substitute participation indirected athletics or military science and tactics for theirrequired physical education credit.

Exemptions/Waivers: The state permits school districtsor schools to exempt students from participating in physi-cal education due to physical disability, employment orreligious belief.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education. The Essential AcademicLearning Requirements have a health and fitness sectionwhich provide Health and Fitness Grade LevelExpectations, describing what students should know andbe able to do from grade to grade. This section was lastrevised in 2008. [See State Standards for PhysicalEducation chart for details.]



Online Physical Education Courses: The state allowsrequired physical education credits to be earned through

online physical education courses.

Student Assessment Requirements: The state requiresstudent assessment in physical education and school districts must report to the state whether they have metthis requirement.






The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels.





Contact Person:

Lisa Rakoz, Program SupervisorHealth and Fitness EducationOffice of Superintendent of Public InstructionOld Capitol BuildingPO Box 47200Olympia, WA [email protected]

West VirginiaAmount of Required Physical Education:

West Virginia mandates at least 90 minutes of physicaleducation per week in grades K-6, but it does not requiredaily recess. The state also mandates physical educationin grades 7-8, although it does not specify minutes perweek, and requires high schools to provide their studentswith physical education.

STATE PROFILES 59



Exemptions/Waivers: Exemptions and waivers may begranted by either the West Virginia Department ofEducation Office of Healthy Schools or the Governor’sHealthy Lifestyles Committee. The exemption is validfor a one-year period.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which all school dis-tricts must comply. The 21st Century PhysicalEducation 5-12 Content Standards and Objectives werelast revised in July 2008. [See State Standards forPhysical Education chart for details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh and high school physical education. Use of a com-mercial curriculum is not permitted.



Student Assessment Requirements: The state requiresstudent assessment in physical education in grades 4-9.Results are sent to the state as congregate data for theschool. Congregate data for the school district are sharedpublicly and data may be used for research studies. Theassessment measures performance of motor and move-ment skills and physical fitness levels.






The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroom

teachers (generalists) may teach required elementaryschool physical education classes. An exam is required forcertification, which must be renewed every five years.



National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process by providing or facilitat-ing mentoring for teachers going through the process,providing full funding if the teacher receives board certi-fication, and providing an on-going higher level of payto all teachers who are National Board-certified.


Contact Person:

Don E. Chapman, M.S.West Virginia Department of EducationOffice of Healthy Schoolshttp://wvde.state.wv.us/osshp/main/Building 6, Room 3091900 Kanawha Boulevard, EastCharleston, WV [email protected]

WisconsinAmount of Required Physical Education:

Wisconsin mandates physical education in grades K-6,and requires daily recess throughout elementary school.The state also mandates physical education in grades 7-12 and requires high schools to provide their studentswith physical education. These directives are enforcedthrough the Content and Learning Requirements.



Exemptions/Waivers: Exemptions and waivers are not permitted.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, though school districts donot have to comply. The Wisconsin Model Academic


Standards for Physical Education were last revised in2010. [See State Standards for Physical Education chartfor details.]

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh and high school physical education. Use of theSPARK commercial curriculum is permitted.









The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels. Elementary classroomteachers (generalists) may teach required elementaryschool physical education classes under the direction of acertified or licensed physical education teacher. A PRAX-IS exam is required for certification, with the minimumpassing score determined by each certifying school ofhigher education. Certification must be renewed everyfive years.



National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certifiedthrough the NBC process by providing partial funding ifthe teacher receives board certification, providing a one-time monetary bonus if the teacher receives board certifi-cation, and providing one or more forms of non-monetaryrecognition for National Board-certified teachers.


Other Notes: There is currently a bill before the legisla-ture that would mandate every school do the PACER ormile run, and submit that data for comparison purposesto improve classroom instruction.

Contact:

Jon W. HisgenHealth and Physical Education ConsultantWisconsin Department of Public InstructionPO Box 7841Madison, WI [email protected]

WyomingAmount of Required Physical Education:

Wyoming is a “local control” state and, as such, the statedoes not have the legal right to require curriculum, test-ing or other mandates in physical education. However,every district in the state requires physical education andhas a districtwide assessment system, including commonassessments that all students must complete.

High School Graduation Requirements: Althoughphysical education (as a class) is not mandated by statelaw, graduation standards in physical education arerequired. The standards can be met in a variety of ways,including physical education class. The state requires dis-tricts to submit a “body of evidence” assessment plan toshow that students meet proficiency in standards.

Substitutions: School districts or schools have theauthority to allow students to substitute other activitiesfor their required physical education credit.

Exemptions/Waivers: Local school districts determinerequirements and waivers.

State Standards: The state has developed its own stan-dards for physical education, with which school districtsmust comply. (All school districts must have standardsthat align with the state standards; thus, districts mustcomply either by adopting the state standards or byaligning their standards with the state standards.) TheWyoming Content and Performance Standards inPhysical Education were last revised in 2008; the nextrevision will begin later in 2010 and conclude in 2012.[See State Standards for Physical Education chart for details.]

STATE PROFILES 61

State Curriculum: The state does not require the use ofspecific curricula for elementary, middle school/juniorhigh and high school physical education. All curriculaare determined by the local districts.

Class Size: The state does not mandate a teacher-to-student ratio.

Online Physical Education Courses: Local districtsdetermine whether physical education credits can beearned through online physical education courses.

Student Assessment Requirements: Each district isrequired to have a plan that documents the assessmentprocess and the results. This districtwide plan includescommon assessments that all students must complete.






The state requires certification or licensure of physicaleducation teachers at the elementary, middle school/jun-ior high and high school levels, which must be renewedevery five years. Elementary classroom teachers (general-ists) may teach required elementary school physical edu-cation classes. A PRAXIS exam is required for initial cer-tification for generalists.


Professional development continuing education hours orcredits are required to maintain/renew one’s physical edu-cation teacher certification or licensure. The back of alicense or permit may state that renewal credits must meetcertain professional-development requirements in content-specific areas such as physical education. No state fundingis provided for this professional development.

Temporary Certification: Temporary/emergency teachercertification to teach physical education may be grantedfor up to one year to anyone holding a bachelor’s degreein teaching or education.

National Board Certification (NBC): The state activelyencourages physical education teachers to become certi-fied through the NBC process by providing partial fund-ing for teachers going through the process and providingan ongoing higher level of pay to all teachers who areNational Board-certified.


Contact Person:

Tom CollinsSupervisor, Standards TeamWyoming Department of Education2020 Grand Avenue, Suite 500Laramie, WY [email protected]

63STATE STANDARDS FOR PHYSICAL EDUCATION

State Standards for

Physical Education

The following 48 states and the District of Columbia reported that they have developed their own state standards for physical education. The chart below indicates what areas are covered by those standards. Iowa and Minnesota do not have state standards for physical education.Alaska has developed standards but they have not yet been adopted.

Alabama Y Alabama Course of Study: 2009 • • • • • •Physical Education

Alaska N Alaska Physical Education DRAFT 3/2010 • • • • • •Standards

Arizona Y Arizona Physical Education 2009 • • • • • • Address the Standards (2009) use of physical

activity as punishment

Arkansas Y Arkansas Physical Education 2005 • • • • • • benefits of lifetime and Health & Safety Curriculum sports and recreationFrameworks

California Y Physical Education Model 2009 • • • • • •Content Standards for California Public Schools

Colorado Y Colorado Comprehensive 2010 • • • • • Health and Physical Education Standards

Connecticut Y Healthy and Balanced Living 2006 • • • • • • Curriculum Framework for Comprehensive School Health Education and Comprehensive Physical Education

Delaware Y Delaware Standards and 2007 • • • • • • Frameworks for PhysicalEducation

District of Y D.C. Public Schools Health and 2007 • • • • • • Columbia Physical Education Standards

Florida Y Next Generation Sunshine 2008 • • • • • • State Standards for Physical Education

Georgia Y Georgia Performance Standards 2009 • • • • • • for Physical Education

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Hawaii Y Hawaii Content and 2005 • • • • • • Performance Standards III for Physical Education

Idaho Y Idaho Content Standards for 2010 • • • • • • Physical Education

Illinois Y Illinois Learning Standards 1996 • • • • • •

Indiana Y Indiana Academic Standards 2008 • • • • • •

Iowa N

Kansas Y Kansas Model Curriculum 2006 • • • • • •Standards for Physical Education

Kentucky Y Kentucky Practical Living and 2006 • • • • • •Vocational Studies Standards

Louisiana Y Louisiana Physical Education 2009 • • • • • • Content Standards Bulletin 102

Maine Y The 2007 Maine Learning 2007 • • • • • Cooperative and Results: Parameters For Responsible Behaviors Essential Instruction

Maryland Y Maryland State Curriculum for 2009 • • • • • Physical Education

Massachu- Y Massachusetts Comprehensive 1999 • • • • • • setts Health Curriculum Frameworks

Michigan Y Physical Education Content 2007 • • • • • • Standards and Benchmarks

Minnesota N

Mississippi Y Mississippi Physical Education 2006 • • • • • • Framework

Missouri Y Show-Me Standards and 2007 • • • • • Injury prevention, Curriculum Framework individual and team

sports

Montana Y Montana Health Enhancement 2001 • • • • • •K-12 Content and Performance Standards

Nebraska Y Nebraska Physical Education 2006 • • • • • • Essential Learnings

Nevada Y Physical Education Content 2000 • • • • • Understanding of Standards dance through skills,

techniques, choreogra-phy, and as a form of

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STATE PROFILES 6565 STATE STANDARDS FOR PHYSICAL EDUCATION

communication.

New Y New Hampshire K-12 Physical 2005 • • • • • • Hampshire Education Curriculum Guidelines

New Jersey Y New Jersey Core Curriculum 2009 • • • • • Content Standards for Comprehensive Health and Physical Education

New Mexico Y New Mexico Physical Education 2005 • • • • • • Contents Standards with Benchmarks and Performance Standards

New York Y Learning Standards of New York 1996 • • • • • •State: Physical Education Learning Standards

North Y NC Healthful Living Standard 2006 • • • • • •Carolina Course of Study

North Dakota Y North Dakota Content and 2008 • • • • • • Fitness Concepts Standards for PE

Ohio Y Ohio PE Academic 2009 • • • • • • Content Standards

Oklahoma Y Priority Academic Student 2003 • • • • • •Skills: Health, Safety and Physical Education

Oregon Y Oregon Physical Education 2006 • • • • • Standards

Pennsylvania Y Academic Standards for Health, 2003 • • • • • • Health Concepts Safety and Physical Education Safety

Rhode Island Y The Rhode Island Physical 2003 • • • • • • Education Framework

South Y South Carolina Academic 2008 • • • • • • Carolina Standards for Physical Education

South Y South Dakota Physical 2000 • • • • • Dakota Education Standards

Tennessee Y Tennessee K-12 Physical 2008 • • • • • •Education Curriculum Standards

Texas Y Texas Essential Knowledge 1998 • • • • • and Skills (TEKS)

Utah Y Utah State Office of Education Elementary • • • • • • Physical Education Core 2008,Curriculum Secondary 2007

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Vermont Y Grade Expectations for 2004 • • • • • • Vermont’s Framework of Standards and Learning Opportunities–Physical Education

Virginia Y Physical Education Standards of 2008 • • • • • • Learning for Virginia Public Schools

Washington Y Essential Academic Learning 2008 • • • • • • Requirements

West Y 21st Century Physical Education 2008 • • • • • • Technology Prek-12 Virginia 5-12 Content Standards and Wellness Prek-4

Objectives

Wisconsin Y Wisconsin Model Academic 2010 • • • • • • Strategies to address Standards Physical Education the varied learner

(adapted)

Wyoming Y Wyoming Content and 2008 • • • • • • Performance Standards in Physical Education

AL • • • • More than 5 years

AK

AZ • • • • • • • • 1 year

AR • • 5 years • • • • 1 year

CA • • • • • • • • 1 year

CO • 5 years • • • • 1 year

CT • • • 5 years • • • • Less than1 year

DE • • • 5 years • • • • 3 years

DC

FL • • 5 years • • • • 2 years

GA • • • 5 years • • • • 1 year

HI • • • • 5 years

ID • • 5 years • • •

IL • • • •

IN • • • • 5 years • • • • 1 year

IA • • • • 5 years • • • • 2 years

KS • • • • 5 years • • • • Less than1 year

KY • • •

LA • • • Less than 3 years • • • 1 year

ME • • • 5 years • • • • 1 year

MD • • • 5 years

MA • • •

67

State Requirements for Teacher Certification/Licensurein Physical Education

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MI • • • • 5 years • • • 1 year

MN • • • • 5 years • • • • 3 years

MS • • 5 years • • • 1 year

MO • • • More than 5 years • • • • 2 years

MT • • • • 5 years • • • • 1 year

NE • • • •

NV • • • • 5 years • • •

NH • • • 3 years

NJ • • • •

NM • • • •

NY • • • 5 years

NC • • • 5 years

ND • • • • • • •

OH • • 5 years

OK • • •

OR • • • 3 years • • •

PA • • • •

RI • • • 3 years • • • • 1 year

SC • • • More than 5 years • • • • 3 years

SD • • • 5 years

TN • • • • • • • 1 year

TX • • • • • • •

UT • • • • 5 years • • • 2 years

VT • • • • • • • 1 year

VA • • • • 5 years

WA • • •

WV • • • • 5 years

WI • • • • 5 years

WY • • • More than 5 years • • • • 1 year

Total 39 43 47 29 26 29 28


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The following states responded that they require student assessment in physical education. The chart below indicates the areas in which student assessment is required.

Performance of Physical fitness Knowledge of physical Participation in Personal and social Other physical motor/movement levels education content physical activity outside responsibility in education content

skills of P.E. class physical education areas

AL •

AR • •

CA •

DE •

HI*

ME • • • •

MS •

MO •

NH*

NM • • • • • •

NY • • • • •

PA • • • •

SC • • • •

TX •

VT • • • • •

VA • • • • •

WA*

WV • •

WY*

*Indicated that a student assessment is required, but did not indicate the areas assessed.

69

State Requirements for Student Assessment in Physical Education

71APPENDIX A

Appendix ANational Standards and Guidelinesfor K-12 Physical Education

Physical activity is critical to the development and main-tenance of good health. The goal of physical education isto develop physically educated individuals who have theknowledge, skills, and confidence to enjoy a lifetime ofhealthful physical activity.

There are four essential elements of quality physicaleducation:

1. Opportunity to Learn:

■ Instructional periods totaling 150 minutes per week(elementary) and 225 minutes per week (middle andhigh school)

■ Qualified physical education teachers providing adevelopmentally appropriate program

■ Teacher/student ratio in physical education nogreater than 1:25 (elementary) and (1:30middle/high) for optimal instruction (similar to otherclassroom settings)

■ Adequate equipment and facilities for all students tobe active at the same time

2. Appropriate Instruction:

■ Use of instructional strategies that provide meaningfulinclusion of all students regardless of skill or fitnesslevel, gender, race or ethnic group

■ Maximum participation and ample practice opportu-nities for class activities

■ Well-designed lessons that facilitate student learning■ Out of school assignments that support learning and

practice of learned skills■ Appropriate discipline and class management (physical

activity should never be used as punishment)■ Use of regular assessment to monitor and reinforce

student learning

3. Meaningful Content:

■ Instruction in a variety of motor skills that aredesigned to enhance the physical, mental, andsocial/emotional development of every child

■ Fitness education and assessment to help children

understand, improve and/or maintain their physicalwell-being

■ Development of cognitive concepts about motor skilland fitness

■ Opportunities to improve emerging social and cooper-ative skills through physical activity and gain a multi-cultural perspective

■ Promotion of recommended amounts of physicalactivity now and throughout life

4. Student and Program Assessment:

■ Assessment is an ongoing, vital part of the physicaleducation program

■ Formative and summative assessment of studentprogress

■ Student assessments align with state/national physicaleducation standards and the written physical educationcurriculum

■ Assessment of program elements that support qualityphysical education

■ Stakeholders periodically evaluate the total physicaleducation program effectiveness

How do we decide what is worth teaching and learningin physical education? The National Standards forPhysical Education define student learning. As nationalconsensus statements about what a student should“know and be able to do,” they provide a basis forinstruction, student assessment, and evaluation of pro-grams at local, district, state, and national levels.

Learning is most effective when learning goals (contentstandards) match both assessment and instructional prac-tices. When the information gathered through assess-ment is consistent with learning goals and is used appro-priately to guide teaching, it can enhance learning as wellas document it. This is known as instructionally alignedphysical education and is the foundation for a qualityphysical education program.

Even the best research-based curriculum and instruc-tional plan cannot be fully effective without a supportive


environment. The elements of “opportunity to learn” arepolicies and practices that make it possible to provide aquality program. Such elements include certified physi-cal education teachers, adequate time, and safe facilitiesand equipment.

The National Association for Sport and PhysicalEducation (NASPE), the only national professional asso-ciation for K-12 physical educators, has developednational standards and guidelines for quality physicaleducation through a national consensus process. Theresulting documents are listed below:

National Standards for Physical Education

Moving into the Future: National Standards for PhysicalEducation, 2nd Edition (NASPE, 2004)

A physically educated person:

Standard 1: Demonstrates competency in motor skillsand movement patterns needed to perform a varietyof physical activities

Standard 2: Demonstrates understanding of move-ment concepts, principals, strategies, and tactics asthey apply to the learning and performance of physi-cal activities

Standard 3: Participates regularly in physical activity

Standard 4: Achieves and maintains a health-enhanc-ing level of physical fitness

Standard 5: Exhibits responsible personal and socialbehavior that respects self and others in physical activ-ity settings

Standard 6: Values physical activity for health, enjoy-ment, challenge, self-expression, and/or social interaction

National Guidelines for Appropriate Instruction

Appropriate Instructional Practice Guidelines forElementary School Physical Education, 3rd Edition(NASPE, 2009)

Appropriate Instructional Practice Guidelines for MiddleSchool Physical Education, 3rd Edition (NASPE, 2009)

Appropriate Instructional Practice Guidelines for HighSchool Physical Education, 3rd Edition (NASPE, 2009)

National Standards for Opportunity to Learn

Opportunity to Learn Guidelines for Elementary SchoolPhysical Education, 3rd Edition (NASPE, 2009)

Opportunity to Learn Guidelines for Middle School PhysicalEducation, 3rd Edition (NASPE, 2009)

Opportunity to Learn Guidelines for High School PhysicalEducation, 3rd Edition (NASPE, 2009)

73APPENDIX B

Appendix BFederal Legislation ImpactingPhysical Education

NASPE and AHA support a national public policy agen-da that promotes comprehensive K-12 education byincreasing the quality and quantity of physical educationand sport opportunities available to all children in theUnited States. Our key areas of focus are the following:

Elementary and Secondary Education Act

(ESEA):

Including the FIT Kids Act (S. 634/H.R. 1585) inESEA reauthorizationAHA and NASPE advocate for passage of the FitnessIntegrated with Teaching Kids Act (FIT Kids Act). This legislation would amend ESEA to support qualityphysical education and physical activity for all publicschool children and ensure they receive important healthand nutrition information.

Proposed changes would:

■ Require all schools, districts and states to report onquantity and quality of physical education;

■ Amend existing school programs to integrate physicalactivity and wellness throughout the school day;

■ Support professional development on health educationand physical education, and provide information onways to promote healthy lifestyles and physical activityin the classroom setting; and

■ Fund a study to examine the impact of health andphysical activity on student achievement and findingeffective ways to increase physical activity during theschool day.

Passage of this bipartisan bill will help address thechildhood obesity epidemic by ensuring that our chil-dren are active throughout the school day, and that theylearn how to be personally responsible for their healththrough exercise and a healthy diet.

Increase federal funding for the Carol M WhitePhysical Education Program (PEP) Authorized through the ESEA and administered by theU.S. Department of Education, the Carol M WhitePhysical Education Program (PEP) provides fundingthrough grants to local education agencies and commu-

nity-based organizations to support the initiation, expan-sion and improvement of physical education programs(including after-school programs).

The PEP grants may fund training and education ofteachers and staff, curricula and equipment to enablestudents to participate in physical education activities.However, only about 10% of applicants are able toreceive grants because of limited funding. NASPE andAHA support increasing funding levels to enable moreschool districts to receive grants for improving theirphysical education programs.

Including the HELP Schools Act/NEW Schools

Act in Reauthorization of the Child Nutrition and

WIC Reauthorization Act (CNA)

Within the Child Nutrition and WIC ReauthorizationAct of 2004 (CNA), Congress established School LocalWellness Policies (LWPs), requiring that all local schooldistricts develop and implement policies on physicalactivity and nutrition. Districts are required to have aplan for measuring implementation of the local wellnesspolicy throughout the district; and are required toinvolve stakeholders—including parents, students,school food-service representatives, school administra-tors, and the public—in the development of the schoolwellness policy.

Recommendations for strengthening local wellness policies:With Congress reauthorizing CNA, AHA and NASPEadvocate for strengthening LWPs by passing the HealthyLocal Policies for Schools Act (HELP Schools Act,S.3126)/Nutrition Education and Wellness in SchoolsAct (NEW Schools Act, HR5090). These bills wouldamend CNA to:

■ Improve transparency by requiring schools to notifyand make their wellness policies and their implementa-tion and assessment plans easily accessible to parents,school staff, and state officials.

■ Encourage engagement creating a standing districtcommittees to lead development, notification, imple-mentation, and assessment of school wellness policies.


■ Require LWPs to include specific policies on physical education.

■ Provide $5 million over five years to USDA in manda-tory funding to assist LEAs in crafting, implementingand improving their LWPs through technical assistanceand outreach.

Increased Funding for the Centers for Disease

Control and Prevention (CDC) Division of

Adolescent and School Health (DASH)

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),through its Division of Adolescent and School Health(DASH), provides funding to state education agencies topartner with state health agencies in implementing andcoordinating school health programs within schools. Thepurpose of this program is to help schools reduce chronic

disease risk factors, including physical inactivity, poornutrition and tobacco use.

The Coordinated School Health Programs (CSHP)model consists of eight interactive components: healtheducation, physical education, health services, nutritionservices, counseling and psychological services, healthyschool environment, health promotion for staff and family/community involvement.

In FY 2009, only 22 states and one tribal organizationwere funded, although additional states were approvedfor funding.

NASPE and AHA believe that this program serves avital need and they advocate for an increase in fundingso that the schools and youth in all 50 states can benefitfrom a coordinated approach to student health.

75APPENDIX C

Appendix CThe Fight for Physical Education in the States

States are the lead battleground for the fight to keepphysical education in schools. With state budgets in tur-moil and legislators facing record state budget shortfalls,momentum for required physical education in schoolsthat meets standards recommended by AHA and NASPEhas slowed.

The trend in state legislatures is to enact legislation thatrequires the State Department of Education to study thecurrent status of physical education in schools. Whilewe believe that kids in school today deserve the benefitsof a quality physical education class and curriculum, weappreciate legislators’ efforts to collect the data needed tosupport statutory requirements for physical education asthe economy improves and state budgets rebound.

There can be no doubt, however, that quality physicaleducation is a key in our nation’s fight against childhoodobesity. States must require schools to provide such aprogram to every child if we are going to deal with theobesity epidemic.

Though not all filed legislation is ultimately signed intolaw, we recognize that each bill is significant in thisongoing fight.

Highlights

■ Louisiana law now requires that students in kinder-garten through 8th grade must have 30 minutes ofphysical education each day.

■ Florida now mandates that children get one semesterof physical education each year.

■ Missouri elementary schools now must provide a mini-mum of 150 minutes of physical activity per week andmust have daily recess.

■ Rhode Island is now requiring that all students receivequality physical education in accordance with nationalstandards.

■ In Ohio, we were able to help save the job of the statephysical education coordinator from budget cuts.

■ Maryland, Maine and Georgia all will be doing assess-ments of physical education in their state.

■ Washington will be enacting a Safe Routes to School

program which will create safe opportunities for kidsto walk and bike to school.

■ Texas passed new legislation establishing a definitionof physical education and providing for a meaningfulcurriculum. Texas also extended their physical educa-tion requirements to pre-school classes.

■ California beat back multiple attempts to relax physi-cal education requirements.

Other Significant Efforts Made in 2009

Assessment—Georgia filed HB 229, The State Healthand Physical Education Act, which will require localschool systems to conduct an annual fitness assessmentand to comply with state physical education instructionrequirements; to provide for reporting of results; to pro-vide for an annual report to the Governor; and to pro-vide for a recognition program. This become effectivebeginning in the 2011-2012 school year and is fundedby the State Board of Education.

The Louisiana Legislature implemented Act No. 256,which improves—though does not mandate— healthre-lated physical fitness assessments in schools. This actexpands a pilot program implemented in 12 school dis-tricts as a joint project among The Picard Center forChild Development and Lifelong Learning, LouisianaDepartment of Education, Louisiana Department ofHealth and Hospitals, Governor’s Council on PhysicalFitness and Sports, and Louisiana Council on ObesityPrevention and Management. As a foundation for thestatewide expansion, the Louisiana Department ofEducation surveyed physical education supervisors inevery school district on their use of physical fitnessassessment tools and also developed gradelevel expecta-tions for physical education.

BMI Tracking—Ohio filed SB 210, which requiresevery school to measure body mass index (BMI) data forstudents in kindergarten and grades 3, 5 and 9. The lawrequires the school to notify the parent or guardian ofeach student screened under this section of any healthrisks associated with the student’s results and provide theparent or guardian with information about appropriatelyaddressing the risks. It also reports aggregated body mass


index and weight status category data collected underthis section to the department of education.

Physical Education Time Requirements—Massachusetts filed House 457, requiring physical edu-cation as a required subject for all grade levels for allstudents in public schools, and also sets a requiredminimum of 120 hours of combined physical educa-tion and physically active lunch or recess periods peryear; provided, at least 90 hours shall be instructionalphysical education. Students may be exempt from thisrequirement with a note from their physician.

Michigan’s SB 365 would establish specific PE require-ments—grades K-5, at least 30 minutes of physical edu-cation at least two days per week all school year; andgrades 6 to 8, at least 45 minutes of physical educationevery school day for at least one semester.

Louisiana amended its physical education requirementswith Act 286, requiring public schools to provide at least30 minutes of physical activity each school day for stu-dents in grades seven and eight. The act also establishesschool health advisory councils, voluntary committeescomprised of parents and community members whoadvise each school district’s board on physical activity forstudents, physical and health education, nutrition, andoverall student health issues.

The Council of the District of Columbia introducedB18-0564, the “Healthy Schools Act of 2009,” whichwould require, beginning in August 2010, that everypublic school student enrolled in kindergarten throughgrade 8 participate in physical education for the entireschool year. Students in K-5 would have to participatefor a minimum of 150 minutes per week, while studentsin grades 6-8 would have to participate in physical edu-cation for at least 225 minutes per week.

Kentucky introduced HB 52, which requires that schoolcouncil wellness policies provide for at least 30 minutesof structured moderate to vigorous physical activity, 150minutes per week, or the equivalent per month; requireschool councils to report progress data; and require thatstructured physical activity be considered part of theinstructional day.

North Carolina filed HB 1373, which adopts and phasesin (through 2015) a required physical education pro-gram. At every grade level, physical education and healtheducation classes must be taught by certified teachers,beginning with the 2011-2012 school year; class sizemust be equivalent to that of other core academic class-es; and assessments must be implemented measuring

knowledge, skill, and fitness. This bill also mandates thatthe elementary school program consist of at least 150minutes of physical education each week.

Obesity Prevention—North Carolina drafted SB 977,“Obesity Prevention in the Public Schools.” This legisla-tion requires that each school adopt a comprehensiveand coordinated approach to obesity prevention ingrades K-12, including the following components: healthand nutrition education; disease prevention for higherlevel students; physical education; and a requirementthat each student engage in at least 30 minutes of mod-erate to vigorous daily physical activity with exceptionsfor medical reasons. Among the specific mandates, thisobesity prevention program must include a “televisionviewing component” designed to reduce the amount oftime children spend watching television, playing videogames, or playing on a computer.

Physical Education Programs—Maine signed into lawHP0983, which creates a physical education Programimplementing the recommendations of the PE4MEPlanning and Oversight Team. This program encourageselementary schools to implement a vigorous physicalactivity and physical education program involving equip-ment, teacher training and student physical assessments;it also requires evaluation standards for the PhysicalEducation Program including evaluation of the infra-structure and content of the physical education curricu-lum of each elementary school in the program.

Substitutions and Exemptions—Michigan’s SB 365 pro-posed the elimination of an exemption from the physicaleducation course for students who are capable of takingit and not physically fit. It would also prohibit a publicschool district from crediting a pupil’s participation inextracurricular activities involving physical activity asmeeting the physical education requirement.

Standards—The Alaska State Board of Education draftednew physical education standards and is expected to for-mally adopt them at their June 10-11, 2010 meeting.The standards define broad objectives and also delineatespecific activities and motor skills that students shouldbe able to perform at each grade level.

During 2009, new standards were approved in Georgia and Tennessee, and new standards were alsodrafted in Wisconsin.

Teacher Certification—Ohio filed SB 210, whichrequires that teacher employed by the school to provideinstruction in physical education on or after July 1, 2013,hold a valid license for teaching physical education.

77

Appendix DPublic Policy Agenda for PhysicalEducation Research

Research shows a strong, positive relationship betweenphysical activity and health for children and adults. Yet, despite the proven value of physical activity, many youths, and most adults, do not participate in the recommended amount of daily physical activity.School physical education programs are often identifiedas a primary strategy to increase physical activity andreduce obesity among the U.S. population in govern-ment, coalition and organizational “calls to action.”There is widespread understanding that school physicaleducation programs help individuals develop theknowledge, skills, and confidence to be physically activefor a lifetime. However, as with any program, decision-makers want to know what the return on investmentwill be. The answer to that question requires rigorousstudies that produce nationally-representative data.Such studies require significant funding, typically at alevel that is available only from the federal governmentor major foundations.

The purpose of this public policy agenda is to outlinecritical research studies that are needed to validate theimportance of school physical education programs andmake a case for further investment in those programs.During the past five years, various members of the U.S.Congress have introduced bills related to increasingphysical activity and healthy eating, and reducing andpreventing chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes.Additionally, many foundations and corporations havefunded physical activity and healthy eating programs foryouths. Programs are critical because they reach youthsand their families in their communities and homes withopportunities to learn, practice and adopt healthy behav-iors. However, programs are only as effective as theirreach, and many programs are provided only to certaintarget populations (e.g., age group, geographic area)because of limited funding or other dissemination chal-lenges. School physical education programs are one of

the few physical activity programs for youths that reachalmost all school-age youths; thus, they have tremendouspotential to affect healthy behavior (i.e., physically activelifestyles) on a massive scale. This potential could bemaximized with scientific evidence of school physicaleducation’s relationship to lifelong participation in physi-cal activity. Data-based findings would be the neededcatalyst to increase the availability of daily physical edu-cation for all students. The research agenda below identi-fies key research questions whose answers could convincelegislators and education policymakers to more fully sup-port and use physical education programs as a strategyfor reversing the obesity epidemic.

Critical Research Studies Needed:

■ Relationship between physical competence (motorskills) learned in school physical education classes andphysical activity participation throughout the lifespan

■ Relationship between school physical education andphysical activity participation outside of physical edu-cation class during the K-12 school years

■ Relationship between school physical education andschool behavioral and learning outcomes

■ Amount of school physical education necessary for allstudents to meet national and/or state standards forphysical education

■ Development of valid and reliable tools to collectnational data on physical activity, school physical edu-cation, and sport participation in elementary- andmiddle school-age youths (such a tool currently existsonly for high school-age youths—the CDC’s YouthRisk Behavior Survey [YRBS])

■ Development of a “formula” to calculate the cost ofdaily physical education taught by a certified physicaleducation teacher for all K-12 students (cost per state;cost per school district)

797979 RESOURCES

Quality Physical Education Programs

PE Metrics: Assessing National Standards 1-6 inElementary School (2010)

Physical Activity & Sport for the Secondary SchoolStudent, 6th Edition (2010)

Moving Into the Future: National Standards forPhysical Education, 2nd Edition (2004)

National Standards & Guidelines for PhysicalEducation Teacher Education (2009)

Quality Coaches, Quality Sports: National Standardsfor Athletic Coaches (2006)

Physical Activity for Children: A Statement ofGuidelines for Children Ages 5-12, 2nd Edition(2003)

On Your Mark, Get Set, Go!: A Guide for BeginningPhysical Education Teachers (2004)

Coaching Issues & Dilemmas: Character BuildingThrough Sport Participation (2003)

Teaching Games for Understanding in PhysicalEducation and Sport (2003)

Opportunity to Learn Standards

Opportunity to Learn Guidelines for ElementarySchool Physical Education (2009)

Opportunity to Learn Guidelines for Middle SchoolPhysical Education (2009)

Opportunity to Learn Guidelines for High SchoolPhysical Education (2009)

Appropriate Practices

Appropriate Practices in Movement Programs forChildren Ages 3-5 (2009)

Appropriate Instructional Practice Guidelines forElementary School Physical Education (2009)

Appropriate Instructional Practice Guidelines forMiddle School Physical Education (2009)

Appropriate Instructional Practice Guidelines forHigh School Physical Education (2009)

Appropriate Instructional Practice Guidelines forHigher Education Physical Activity Programs (2009)

Assessment Series

Assessing and Improving Fitness in ElementaryPhysical Education (2008)

Assessing Concepts: Secondary Biomechanics(2004)

Assessing Student Outcomes in Sport Education(2003)

Assessment in Outdoor Adventure PhysicalEducation (2003)

Authentic Assessment of Physical Activity for HighSchool Students (2002)

Elementary Heart Health: Lessons and Assessment(2001)

Creating Rubrics for Physical Education (2000)

Standards-Based Assessment of Student Learning:A Comprehensive Approach (1999)

Resources

Order online at www.naspeinfo.org or call 1-800-321-0789

Shipping and handling additional.

National Association for Sport and Physical Education, an association of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (AAHPERD)

1900 Association Drive, Reston, VA 20191, [email protected], 703-476-3410, 703-472-8316 (fax)

Published by the National Association for Sport and Physical Education

national association for sport and physical education & american

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