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Commitment to Development
Regularly scheduled Physical Education classes are part of every student’s day through Grade 8. While students can also choose to join after-school athletics beginning in Grade 4, the commitment to Physical Education continues as a cornerstone of Park’s commitment to educating the whole child.
Lifelong Skills
Students begin with learning to think about moving their bodies – motor skills and coordination – and grow to develop and reinforce skills of increasing complexity. They gain life skills and understand the benefits of physical activity as a lifelong habit. With opportunities to push outside their comfort level, students have many chances to learn something new and feel the joy of accomplishing more than they thought they could.
Head, Heart & Hands
Park’s P.E. curriculum builds deep learning and understanding through three domains: Head (cognitive), Heart (affective), and Hands (psychomotor). This model creates an inclusive and accessible environment for all learners. It keeps students engaged and motivated, and encourages creativity and innovation. It challenges students to communicate, collaborate, and problem-solve, and helps them recognize they can make great strides towards their end goals no matter their level of physical ability.
Dynamic Facilities & Electives
The program makes great use of Park’s extensive facilities, including two gymnasiums, grass and turf fields, climbing walls, and high and low adventure course elements, supported by our creative, dedicated Physical Education staff. In Grades 7 & 8, students have an array of P.E. electives they can add to their schedule, with classes like Zumba, Project Adventure, and Weight and Resistance Training
An essential part of how Park defines “academic excellence,” Physical Education helps build habits and attitudes about being physically active, while also prioritizing the importance of play in childhood. Through their participation, students come to know themselves and their passions, feel known and seen by their teachers and peers, and deepen their sense of belonging.