By

Manuel Molina,   Longoria Middle School

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All In, All Abilities — Activate Your School!

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Physical Activity Participation

At Longoria Middle School, we have worked together to increase the amount of physical activity and the number of activities for all of our students. This year, we have incorporated seven to nine minutes of walking and or running at the beginning of the period so that students can take the first step towards being physically active for 60 minutes a day. In our exercises, we have incorporated core exercises and fitnessgram activities in our routine, done with all students including adapted physical education students. By including all students in our exercise routine, we have seen a spirit of togetherness and has seen improvements in fitness levels. For our sixth grade students, we created a class called "Super Physical Education" that involves both male and female students who want to be part of our athletic programs in 7th and 8th grade. This class challenges all students and activities are geared to increase cardiovascular fitness and skills. Our Adapted Physical Education students are mainstreamed and successfully included in some of our regular Physical Activities.  Being part of the Fuel up to Play 60 program has inspired students to be more physically active in class and at home. At Longoria, we believe that all students of all abilities will increase their physical activity one step at a time and one activity at a time.

How did you accomplish your goals?

The Physical Education department has worked well together to emphasize increasing the students physical activity levels, core strenth, and introducing the students to activities in which all of them are successful.

How do you plan to make this Play last during the school year and beyond?

We will be buying new Physical Education equipment with ESSA funds that will help with activities with our Adapted PE students, Super PE (hurdles), and unique equipment that keep kids active and engaged.

What improvements have you seen at your school?

Student physical activity levels have improved tremendously at our school due to 7 - 9 minute walk / run at the beginning of the class period and increased equipment has resulted in shorter lines in PE. The PE department has worked well in planning for this improvement in physical activity and programs being offered.