Physical Education Involves Family , Community
By Cindi Lane , Volusia County Schools
Students at Read-Pattillo Elementary School love their physical education classes so much that they save their school rewards for months to earn a day as Assistant PE Coach !
“ The kids get to spend the whole day with me ,” said Dr . Letasha Robertson , one of two PE teachers at the elementary school in New Smyrna Beach . “ They teach the class . I ’ ve even had a kindergartener teach 5th graders !”
Serving as Coach Robertson ’ s assistant is the top-tier prize in Read-Pattillo ’ s reward system . The opportunity costs $ 75 in CRIMP Cash , which is earned all school year by demonstrating Citizenship , Respect ,
Inclusiveness , Mindset and Perseverance . It ’ s so popular that the price is increasing next school year .
“ They love PE so much ,” said William Poniatowski , who retired this summer after more than 38 years with Volusia County Schools .
PE coaches do make physical education fun for students , and it ’ s easy to understand why children love playing games with their friends outdoors in the sunshine . But it ’ s also a serious subject , based on county , state and national curriculum standards .
VCS provides comprehensive instruction in health , physical education , social-emotional health , fitness and sportsmanship . Over the past 10 years , the curriculum has shifted to a greater emphasis on life-long wellness . There are units about swimming , sun safety , health and nutrition , pedestrian and bicycle safety , and lessons cover fundamentals such as jumping and landing , dance , throwing and catching , tumbling and motor skills .
“ It ’ s a well-rounded program where everybody is active ,” Coach Robertson said .
The physical education program has also grown to involve parents and the community more than ever . Read-Pattillo participates in the Kids Heart Challenge through the American Heart Association , and the school hosts “ Bring Your Parent to PE Day ” twice a year ( though that program wasn ’ t offered this past year due to the pandemic ).
Coach Poniatowski encourages families to take advantage of Central Florida ’ s gorgeous weather to stay active through recreational activities such as biking , hiking , swimming , kayaking and canoeing .
The pandemic inspired many families to slow down a bit and make more time for recreation and exercise , said Coach Robertson . She recommends families set aside time at least once a week to exercise together .
“ When the parents are motivated , the kids are motivated also ,” Coach Robertson said . “ Children like to move , but they also need to know that we care
about their health and wellness .” VOLUSIA parent MAGAZINE | 5