I am in my 29th year of teaching Physical Education at Midtown Elementary School here in East Tennessee. I strongly believe that providing students with a positive first experience in PE is crucial for establishing a lifelong appreciation of an active lifestyle.

PE is inherently a social class where students learn to cooperate and compete, work in groups, communicate effectively, solve problems, develop leadership skills, and build character. Gym class is an essential time for our students, as it often serves as a key indicator of their social and intellectual growth.

Over the years, my approach has evolved from traditional drills and team sports to a broader focus on fitness, lifestyle activities, recreational pursuits, and fostering a sense of community—addressing the comprehensive needs of children. The emphasis should no longer be solely on team affiliations or the outcomes of winning and losing; instead, it must focus on ensuring that children spend significant time in environments that actively promote moderate to vigorous physical activity.

I now create lesson plans that connect the skills being taught to their potential real-world applications. I aim to enrich the overall experience by incorporating music and using video presentations during downtimes to highlight movement strategies, individual and group responsibilities, respect, and understanding, not just skill development. By making activities fun and exposing kids to various movements, I hope to spark their interest and encourage a physically active lifestyle.

Knowing that our students find PE classes fun, exciting, and engaging motivates me to continually design lessons and activities that enhance this positive environment.