Physical Education Mission Statement
The goal of the Berlin Public Schools health and physical education program is to provide a variety of activities, which reflect and challenge the needs of the students physically, intellectually, emotionally, and socially. Through health and physical education the students have an opportunity to develop lifetime skills, problem-solving techniques, and a positive self-image.
Physical Education Philosophy
A
quality Physical Education Program supports the physical, intellectual, and
social-emotional developments of students.
The philosophy of Berlin Public Schools' Elementary Physical Education Program is to provide a balance of enjoyable activities, which reflect and challenge the needs of the students physically, intellectually, emotionally, and socially. The goal is to teach students about the importance of not only
maintaining adequate levels of physical fitness, but also the value of making
healthy choices in all aspects of life. Physical
activity/fitness should be an essential part of everyone’s life and that is why
Physical Education is such an important part of a school curriculum. It is our
job as physical educators to provide students with the knowledge and skills
they need in order to become successful, healthy adults. After all, being healthy physically affects
everything people do and as elementary physical educators, instilling the mentality
to pursue a lifetime of fitness-related activities while they are still young
can only benefit them to carry over these habits into adulthood and for their
entire life. In order to have the best
chance of staying clear of health-related diseases correlated with inactive and
sedentary lifestyles, participating in some sort of physical activity on a
habitual basis is crucial for children. Physical Education enhances communication skills and provides students with an understanding of the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It is paramount that students learn a variety of important life skills which include movement skills, knowledge, and behavior/social skills over the course of each school year. Some of these include: locomotor, non-locomotor, and manipulative skills, team-building, social interaction skills, and cognitive concepts linked to fitness, wellness, skill development, and social skills appropriate to each grade/developmental level. We want all students to be competent in a variety of fundamental motor skills, because these skills enhance everyday living. The acquisition of fundamental motor skills are essential to improving ones overall fitness and key in leading an enjoyable active lifestyle. Berlin elementary physical educators believe that a quality physical education program is one that is aligned with current state and national standards. Our program will promote the acceptance and participation of all students through individualized programs that meet the needs and interests of all learners. Furthermore, to the best of our ability we will provide all learners with a safe and positive learning environment.