Why PE MattersBuilding the case for physical education to promote equity, academic achievement & physical fitness

Physical Education is the equitable way for ALL children to get regular

physical activity.

PE vs. PA

Benefits of Physical Activity

Physical Activity Primes the Brain for Learning

Average composite of 20 student brains

Scan compliments of Dr. Chuck Hillman, University of Illinois.

Physical Activity Linked to Improvements in Standardized Test Scores

Physical Activity Linked to Fewer Classroom Behavior Problems

Woodland Elementary School, Kansas City, Fall 2005-Spring 2006, Grades 4 and 5

59%

67%

Adding physical education to the school curriculum by taking time from academic subjects does not decrease

student academic achievement.

Conversely, adding time to academic subjects by taking time from PE does not enhance grades in these subjects and may be detrimental to health.

6953.457.6

3.7

100100

54.5

10.3

0

100

CHILD GIRL TEEN GIRL CHILD BOY TEEN BOY

BELOW POVERTY LEVEL ABOVE POVERTY LEVEL

THE MAJORITY OF LOW-INCOME CHILDREN DO NOT PARTICIPATE

IN SPORTS TEAMS OUTSIDE OF PE.

Children (3-11Y) and Teens (12-19Y) Not On a Sports Team in San Francisco by Gender and Income Level

California Health Interview Survey, 2007

Physical Education is the equitable way for ALL children to get regular

physical activity.

Shape Up SF’s Vision for PE

1. All students receive daily, quality PE from PE-credentialed teachers.

2. SFUSD develop and implement a measure of accountability to ensure equitable access to quality PE.

Our Successes

• Received grant from California Department of Public Health to conduct first PE assessment.

• Funded a second PE assessment in partnership with SFUSD.

• Raised value and awareness about benefits of PE to SFUSD administrators.

• 500% increase of PE Specialists at elementary schools.

• Systematic approach to assigning PE Specialists to elementary schools.

Thank You!

www.PE4SF.org