Physical Education is a New York State mandated course requirement. Students must successfully complete eight semesters during their high school experience, the equivalent of 2 credits. At Shenendehowa, the Physical Education Department strives to guide students in positive directions, enabling them to develop competency and proficiency in their physical abilities. The Physical Education Department at Shenendehowa provides students with opportunities to interact with peers and become engaged in activities that promote lifetime fitness.
The goal of physical education is to develop physically educated individuals who have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to enjoy a lifetime of healthy physical activity. It is our belief that this experience will empower students to continue this healthful lifestyle.
Students in Physical Education classes grades nine through twelve are developing skills that will make them successful. In 9th grade students are afforded the opportunity to choose some elective activities that offer different learning experiences that coincide with our program objectives and exit outcomes. In grades ten through twelve, students have the opportunity to choose an elective track for their physical education experience. The track provides a variety of skills/sports. At all grade levels we include principles that promote a Universal Design for Learning.
Physical Education (PE) in high school focuses on promoting physical fitness, well-being, and healthy lifestyle choices. The curriculum includes a variety of activities designed to improve students' strength, endurance, coordination, and teamwork. Students engage in individual and team sports, fitness exercises, and wellness education, emphasizing the importance of regular physical activity. PE also teaches life skills such as goal setting, sportsmanship, and stress management, fostering a holistic approach to physical and mental health.
The strength and conditioning physical education track is for students in grades 10-12 who are interested in participating in weight training during physical education classes. This class is by recommendation only. This class will teach proper lifting and spotting techniques for a variety of different lifts, while students participate in a district-wide workout plan. Students who successfully participate in this track will see increases in their overall physical strength and speed while gaining skills and knowledge necessary to safely continue a strength and conditioning program outside of our immediate physical education environment. This will enhance their lifetime fitness knowledge and capabilities.
This track is designed to give students the opportunity to learn fitness concepts and conditioning techniques used for optimal personal physical fitness. Students will benefit from comprehensive weight training and cardiovascular endurance exercises utilizing circuit machines, treadmills, ellipticals, and cycling bicycles. All students will learn the basic fundamentals of strength training, aerobic training, and overall fitness training and conditioning, incorporating the five components of physical fitness.
Unified PE provides a unique opportunity for students in grades 10-12 with and without intellectual disabilities to participate in physical education classes together. Unified PE is a collaborative effort that supports physical development, athletic growth, and leadership skills through the inclusion of all students. This course is by recommendation only. Participants are recommended for this program based on their interests and demonstrated skills.