Pierremont’s HPE program is developed with the most current and relevant research available. While our district curriculum has undergone a recent update to align with national standards, we also utilize supplemental materials such as SPARKpe, OpenPhysEd, Fitnessgram, and the use of HeartZones heart rate monitoring (4/5th grades).
Instructional units are designed to develop students’ motor, cognitive, and social skills. Students will focus on learning skills and applying them to various situations. Assessments will be based on progress toward a standard and transfer of learning, NOT in comparison to other students. Students will have many opportunities to practice and participate in various levels of physical activity. Our goal is for everyone to work at their best, feel successful, and build competent, capable movers who will enjoy life-long fitness.
Research shows students who participate in quality HPE classes, with a focus on fitness, do better on standardized tests in addition to experiencing enhanced mental health (improved impulse control, attention, and motivation, and decreased fatigue and anxiety). Experts recommend children receive at least 60 minutes of physical activity each and every day. To learn more, check out Harvard’s Dr. John Ratey, author of SPARK: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain.
WHEN DOES MY CHILD HAVE Health & PE?
All students have PE every other day. The PE schedule can be found on the Pierremont HPE website or consult the classroom teacher’s schedule. For comfort and safety purposes, your child should wear sneakers and clothes suitable for activity; coming prepared is a great way to build accountability and responsibility in your child. Your child is welcome to bring their water bottle to the gym.
WHAT IS NEEDED IF MY CHILD IS INJURED OR SICK?
There are bound to be activities or units your child prefers more than others. However, we ask your cooperation in building confidence, resiliency, and perseverance, by encouraging participation in all activities. One successful way to achieve this, is helping students see the similarities between activity levels in PE and at recess. Of course, if your child cannot participate in PE due to chronic illness or injury, please send a detailed note to Nurse Katherine Parks, who will forward the information to us. More often than not, students may only have to be exempt from certain parts of class rather than the entire 50 minutes. If your child will need miss class for an extended period of time due to injury or illness alternative activities will be provided to ensure your child continues their learning and feels included.
How do I know what is happening in Health & PE class?
First, ask your child! We hope that we can support and encourage that natural joy of movement. You can also check our Facebook page where we try to post daily with pictures and video so you have real time information. We will also provide a run-down in the Pierremont Paw Print. Don't forget that Health & PE go virtual too! Check out our Schoology course.
What if I have a question or concern?
We want to help! Our goal is for each child to enjoy and appreciate their body and ability to move with confidence. Please reach out to us if you have questions! Feel free to stop us at arrival or dismissal or reach us at our contacts below.
We are excited for a happy and healthy new year!!!
Mrs. Allison Wallace Mrs. Mitzi Skiba
awallace@parkwayschools.net mskiba@parkwayschools.net
314-415-4631 314-415-4630