*SHAPE America. (2013). National Standards for K-12 Physical Education. Reston, VA: Author

What's happening in PE?

Volleyball has invaded the gym! Bump, set, spike!  What fun we are having as we learn the skills of this fabulous team sport. Even our first & second grades enjoyed playing on our big net as well as our make-shift mini nets. For the past three weeks, Mrs. Nenna's & Mrs. Gilligan's classes have been learning how to jump rope. I have witnessed great strides as many have mastered how to "turn then jump". We continue to practice at recess trying to learn this often-forgotten but lifelong skill. PreK and Kindergarten classes played "Animals in the Barnyard" with pool noodles as they corralled the animals ( balloons) into their barn. Christmas games are around the corner!

 
This week we recognized " Fire Prevention Week's" 100th anniversary since the Great Chicago Fire in 1922. Grades Prek 4yr- Fourth Grade were engaged as they ran in obstacle courses showcasing the important topics of when to call 911, how to stop, drop and roll, knowing 2 ways out of every room, how to stay low and go in a smokey room, and adapting a family escape plan and meeting place. Do you have working smoke detectors? Do your children know what to do in case of a fire? Be safe, don't wait!

We are off to a great start! Our focus for the first month of school is on Teambuilding and Improving Relationships. The games I have selected ( Hoola Hoop Showdown & Pipeline ) encouraged middle schoolers to communicate and work together cooperatively. The younger students worked on the games of "Risky Business", and "4 Corner Dice Roll) as the elements of fair play, teamwork and strategy were discussed.
WHOA!!! Off we ( 5th-8th grades) ventured to Dermond Field last week as we played our game of Capture! Making a grand appearance was our brand new"Squealer Pigs"!
They also "captured" the hearts of our first and second-grade students in the teambuilding game of "Pass the Pig":)Too much fun is happening here!





WHY IS PHYSICAL EDUCATION SO IMPORTANT?

• Improved academics - The big bonus