Does your physical education program help students attain the knowledge, skills and attitudes necessary for them to lead healthy, active and productive lives? This new school year the National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) urges principals and teachers to conduct a self-study of their school's physical education program--evaluate its strengths and weaknesses and then encourage a plan for improvement where needed. 

Here are 10 quick questions to ask:  

1. Is physical education taught by a qualified teacher with a degree in physical education?     

2.  Do students receive formal instruction in physical education for a minimum of 150 minutes per week (elementary) and 225 minutes per week (middle and high)?       

3.  Is the physical education class size (25-30) consistent with safe, effective instruction?    

4.  Are there adequate funds to provide enough equipment for every student to participate?   

5.  Is technology incorporated on a regular and continuing basis?        

6.  Are indoor and outdoor facilities adequate and sufficient?          

7.  Is there a written, sequential curriculum based on the national and/or state physical education content standards?        

8. Is assessment an integral part of the physical education program, and is it aligned with the state and/or national content standards?       

9.  Does the program provide for maximum participation and successful learning for every student?          

10.  Does the program address development of the whole student, including the physical, cognitive and affective domains? 
          
For more information, visit www.aahperd.org/naspe. A nonprofit professional membership organization, NASPE supports K-12 physical education programs and physical educators.