The same is happening with music and arts, you guys should look into the types of teachers and classes that will be lost, and if that reserve could help any.
Gym class is vital. Without it, the only movement many kids would get is jiggling the game controller and extending for the Zesty Cheetos. Fat kids become fat, diabetic kids, become fat diabetic adults to whose dialysis treatment we all get to contribute.
Gym class can be made fun. I know that's contrary to most all of our experiences. It's not that hard. A good PE instructor can plan creative activities and make the most awkward and reluctant kid feel comfortable. I've seen it happen. Unfortunately, still, too many gym teachers cater to the athletic kids to the detriment of everyone else.
My daughter just finished second grade at a PPS school in North Portland. She has a really good and creative PE teacher. PE is not just running around or playing dodge ball like it was when I was a kid. There is a curriculum that incorporates nutrition, basic health lessons and other good life skills. The teacher also works with the PTA to host events like family fit and other activities.
Honestly, I don't know I am going to break it to my daughter that she won't be seeing her teacher anymore for PE.
@ Evil WSH,
What pdxmom said. There are other like in her example. Things are changing. Not all gym teachers are boner-in-the-tight-sweatpants dictatorial kind anymore.
The kids who really liked gym seemed to think it was okay that they were awful at math and reading and science and history, as long as they were good at gym. I'm kind of okay with taking gym away, and leaving kids to measure their success against only the real classes.
Teachers or developers your choice.
sorry for the typo
Gym class can be made fun. I know that's contrary to most all of our experiences. It's not that hard. A good PE instructor can plan creative activities and make the most awkward and reluctant kid feel comfortable. I've seen it happen. Unfortunately, still, too many gym teachers cater to the athletic kids to the detriment of everyone else.
Has anyone ever met a gym teacher that could be described as "good," "creative," or "vital"?
Bottom line, if you have to cut $19M, there's gonna be some pain. My gym teachers had a saying about pain that I can't recall.
Honestly, I don't know I am going to break it to my daughter that she won't be seeing her teacher anymore for PE.
What pdxmom said. There are other like in her example. Things are changing. Not all gym teachers are boner-in-the-tight-sweatpants dictatorial kind anymore.