May: National Physical Fitness & Sports Month

LOCAL PHYSICAL EDUCATORS BELIEVE HEALTHY, PHYSICALLY ACTIVE KIDS LEARN BETTER!”

May , 2004 – WILLIAMSPORT AREA SCHOOL DISTRICT is joining the country in celebrating May: National Physical Fitness and Sports Month, and reminding America that “Healthy, physically active kids learn better!” Critically concerned about the omission of physical education in the No Child Left Behind legislation, the physical education teacherS are also using May: National Physical Fitness and Sports Month as an opportunity to call attention to the possibility of students suffering negative consequences.

“I believe many children will be left behind if they do not:  learn how to achieve and maintain health-related fitness and other healthy lifestyle behaviors have opportunities to explore their unique potential gain an understanding and appreciation of their responsibilities as citizens, and develop character traits to help them make good decisions about positive behaviors that support their well-being." Quality physical education programs in all K-12 schools provide the foundation for healthy, active lifestyles that support all learning and help ensure success in future pursuits. While families and communities play an important role in the prevention of obesity and other health risks, schools must help children develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence necessary to adopt and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

The National Association for Sport and Physical Education (NASPE) urges policymakers, school administrators, teachers and families to join together to provide a balanced and comprehensive education of the whole child for life in the 21st century.