Physical Education and Health

Physical Education is part of the general educational program that contributes, primarily through movement experiences, to the total growth and development of all children. The goal of a general education and of physical education is to help individuals achieve optimum personal development and contribute to the goals of society.

The importance of physical activity in developing a healthy lifestyle must be understood by society and its children. The concept of dualism, "healthy mind in a healthy body," can be accomplished when citizens understand the importance of a quality physical education program for youngsters.

Three outcomes of a physical education program are unique. The first outcome is the achievement of a personalized physical fitness level. A second major outcome is the development of competency in a wide variety of physical skills to assure that students can function effectively in selected physical activities. The third outcome demands that students acquire requisite knowledge related to motor skill performance and fitness maintenance. The physical education program should offer something for all types of students.

Health education in schools is essential to enable students to acquire the knowledge and skills to promote lifelong wellness. Students who have health knowledge and skills have a better health status and contribute to the nation's economic competitiveness by:

·working more effectively;

·missing fewer days from school due to injury or illness;

·using fewer medical services due to prevention or delayed onset of disease;

·reducing the use of health insurance benefits.

Health-literate individuals are responsible, productive citizens who realize their obligation to ensure that their community is kept healthy, safe, and secure so that all citizens can experience a high quality of life. They also realize that this obligation begins with self; that is, they are responsible individuals who avoid behaviors which pose a health or safety threat to themselves and/or others or create an undue burden on society.

MSAD #16 Framework for Academic Standards Fall 1997

Phys. Ed./Health 103