HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The South Country Physical Education program is based on a common core of learning experiences planned on a sequential arrangement appropriate to the individual's stage of social, emotional, intellectual and psychomotor development.  The Physical Education program contributes to the physical, social, and mental health of the individual and is an important part of the education process.

At all levels, the Physical Education program is designed to enable students to develop a life plan for wellness.  Students will be tested each year (President's Physical Fitness Test).

Students with special physical or emotional needs are provided with an adaptive program designed to meet their particular requirements.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION (GRADE 9-12) - Alternate days, Full year, ¼  credit each semester

This program is based on a group of core development activities.  The purpose of this program is to develop positive attitudes toward physical activity, develop an understanding of the present values of an activity or sport, and to learn to appreciate how the body moves.  Activities include:  fitness and psychomotor testing, evaluation and placement, sport orientation (soccer, football, basketball, volleyball, softball, gymnastics), personal fitness and folk, square and social dancing.

ADAPTIVE PHYSICAL EDUCATION - Alternate days, Full year, ¼  credit each semester

Adaptive Physical Education is a New York State mandated program made available to the student who is physically or emotionally restricted to small group activity (6 students maximum = 1 teacher).  The student in Adaptive P.E. must be evaluated by a physical educator and recommended to the Committee on Special Education (CSE).  The course is designed to work individually with each students limitations, building toward a more successful total fitness level and lifestyle.  (Limited enrollment.)

HEALTH EDUCATION - 1 semester – ½  credit

This program is designed to increase student involvement in an awareness of health issues and their role in the decision making process.  Content involves the psychological and emotional changes that are taking place in the student and the development of a social readiness to assume and carry out adult responsibilities.  Topics covered include:  nutrition, mental health, substance abuse, family living, suicide prevention, AIDS education and human sexuality.   All state mandates are met.

LEADERSHIP FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS - 1 semester – ½  credit

This course is designed to develop a school of leaders who will be able to influence others to reach positive common goals.  This course allows students to develop a team approach to a positive school climate.

SURVIVAL FOR LIFE - 1 semester – ½  credit

The first half of this course will be devoted to instruction leading to a community first aid and safety card from the American Heart Association and standard first aid card from the American Red Cross.  Instruction will include cardiopulmonary resuscitation for both adult and pediatrics as well as basic first aid.  the course is designed for those interested in a hands-on approach to learning.

The second half of the course will follow our lives from womb to tomb.  An in depth exploration of our development from the moment of conception to handling grief and death.  Significant time will be spent on our roles as we enter adulthood and parenting.

PREREQUISITE:  Health     Grade Levels 11-12.

revised 10/23/07 JF/JBJS