Policy 2124

The board recognizes that a healthy school environment prepares students for college, careers, and successful futures. Additionally, Physical Education and Health Instruction are mandated in Washington state. The board is committed to providing students with quality physical education and health classes. 

Physical Education and Health Program
The district’s K-12 physical education programs will be aligned with the Washington State Health and Physical Education K-12 Learning Standards and will include, but not be limited to, the development of knowledge and skills to be physically active, eat nutritiously, access reliable health information and services, communicate effectively, and set health-enhancing goals. Physical education class is not to be used or withheld as punishment for any reason.

The district will ensure that the following requirements are met:

• All students in grades one through eight receive an average of one hundred instructional minutes per week of physical education per year. 
• All high school students are required to complete a minimum of three semesters (1.5 credits) of physical education and one semester (.5 credit) of health education. 
• Any student who is excused from participation on account of physical disability, employment, religious belief, participation in directed athletics or military science and tactics, or for other good cause will be required to demonstrate mastery of the knowledge portion of the fitness requirement, in accordance with district policy.
• The district will offer a one-credit course or its equivalent in physical education for each grade in the high school program (grades 9-12).
• All students have equal and equitable opportunities for health and physical education. 
• All students, from kindergarten through grade 12, will participate in a quality, standards-based health and physical education program.
• OSPI developed assessments or other strategies will be used in health and physical education, formerly known as classroom-based assessments.

Additionally, school districts must conduct an annual review of their physical education (PE) programs. The review must consist of numerous provisions, including:

• The number of individual students completing a PE class during the school year;
• The average number of minutes per week of PE received by students in grades 1 through 8, expressed in appropriate reporting ranges;
• The number of students granted waivers (excused from participation) from PE requirements;
• An indication of whether all PE classes are taught by instructors who possess a valid health and fitness endorsement;
• The PE class sizes, expressed in appropriate reporting ranges;
• An indication of whether, as a matter of policy or procedure, the district routinely modifies and adapts its PE curriculum for students with disabilities; and 
• An indication of whether the district routinely excludes students from PE classes for disciplinary reasons.

As a best practice and subject to available funding, the district will strive to ensure that the following occur:

• Students will be moderately to vigorously active for at least 50% of class time during most or all physical education class sessions.
• All schools will have certificated physical education teachers providing instruction.
• All schools will have appropriate class sizes, facilities, equipment, and supplies needed to deliver quality health and physical education consistent with state standards.
• All physical education teachers will be encouraged to participate in professional development in physical education at least once a year. 

La Center School District

Originally adopted as part of Policy 6700 July 24, 2018

New Policy Number 2124 Adoption Date: June 25, 2024
Classification: Encouraged