Joining a professional organization is important for our growth as educators and to have the biggest impact on our students. It helps to stay informed of the latest trends, best practices, and to build your support community in physical education. When I was in my undergrad program as a physical [...]

Over the years, indoor rock climbing has seen increased inclusion in physical education programs across the country. Horizontal climbing walls, also known as Traverse Walls®, are a popular choice in elementary and middle schools since their 8- or 10-foot heights make them easier to manage than roped vertical climbing walls. [...]

If you’re a teacher, you might be concerned that your students are not getting enough exercise. But you can play a crucial role in introducing them to new ways to get fit outside of PE class. Today, programs like SPARK are providing students with the motivation and skills to move [...]

I use a variety of teaching methods and appropriate instructional practices to provide a well-rounded education to support healthy and academically successful students. My instructional philosophy is age/grade-level appropriate and engages students 100% of the time through activities that are aligned with SHAPE national standards. These practices ensure safety, fun, [...]

The first few minutes of PE class can make or break your day. Getting students active from the start is one of SPARK’s main objectives. In many PE classes, students arrive to class only to sit around waiting for the teacher or listening to a long set of instructions. This [...]

Y’át’ééh from the Navajo Nation. Since 1997, Shiprock Coordinated School Health has used Sports Play Active Recreation for Kids (SPARK) as an evidence-based program for physical education. In working with SPARK curriculums for 18 years as a Trainer of Trainers (T of T). I gained great insights into teaching strategies [...]