ODE- Physical Education Standards

Ohio Department of Education: Physical Education Standards

I am currently enrolled in school to attain my Teacher’s Certification in Physical Education and Health. I’ve come to realize that the Ohio Department of Education does not have standards regarding Health curriculum. That does offer me a bit of freedom, but at the same time, I understand this is really a slap in the face. Health is evidently not a worthy enough concept in which to educate young minds. Of course, I disagree. I view the human body and all its mental, physical, and emotional health as a basis for all other continued growth. If a child is malnourished, or depressed, or in chronic pain, s/he cannot function in a classroom to the best of her/his ability. The person as a whole must be addressed in tandem with the liberal arts.
Thankfully, the Ohio Department of Education does have standards for Physical Education. Looking over the list I notice that it takes into account child development physically, mentally, and emotionally. Respect of self and others (standard 5) and social interaction (standard 6) are addressed in as much detail or more than the actual movement pattern standards. This is of key importance, because where else does one engage with so many people at a time in so passionate a dialogue as the movement of the human body in sports or dance? Physical Education can be a key player in the school curriculum by helping children understand democratic behavior and working towards a common goal. The chance to relieve stress, move, engage with peers, express oneself – all of these activities can lead to a positive influence on school work and test taking.
Unfortunately, I was not one to experience this kind of environment after the Primary grades. Middle School and High School P.E. classes were mostly geared toward established games and rules. There was little time for play, creativity, and skill development. One was not asked to personalize the curriculum. That is another standard addressed by the Ohio Department of Education. Standard 3 states that students should participate regularly in physical activity, both in school and out. I’ve played around with the idea of requiring homework in P.E., and this standard expresses the idea positively. Students should be able to recognize community resources for extracurricular activities; either by joining an activity, interviewing the club members or leaders, etc. By demonstrating to students that what they are learning in school follows them out into the “real” world, a deeper understanding and appreciation unfolds.