What happened to Phys Ed in Schools?Should we include Environmental Futures in U.S. Education Curriculum?

Question

I've heard that Physical Education has been taken OUT of many U.S. Schools? Is this true? What the Heck? If so, No wonder our kids are so OBESE! I have heard it's because of law suits!

And do you think we should include an Environmental Class throughout the Nation? Would that be a good idea?

Your thoughts and any source links would be appreciated!

Answer 1

You don't know it but your question highlights the *exact* problem we are having in schools.

You lament the loss of PE, yet you ask for a mandatory class on environment. nothing particularly off with the request - its laudable - however the increased pressure put on schools to solve all the ills of society leads to unintended problems.

Yes - only one state mandates PE.

obesity is not caused by lack of PE - I could argue that McDonalds or myspace has a greater affect. (any kid who gets their only physical activity in PE alone has some problems... activity is a lifestyle)The key is that the loss of PE is directly related to the increased pressure to raise test scores due to NCLB. When you ask for local control to be removed - because you want a simplistic answer for some societal problem - you are asking for unintended consequences.

Nothing wrong with an environmental class. I teach one. The problem is if you mandate it - you must take time from somewhere else - what do you suggest we take it from? math, science english and history are out. perhaps electives curtailed - no more music or art?

Dangerous thinking that.

Leave it to the local constituents to decide.

Answer 2

It's unfortunate that many educators ostracize the parents from taking part in the cirriculum/education of their children, exemplified above by easty.  

There are welcome mats for parents at the Administrative level, although not at all school districts.

At any rate, I agree with you.  We need to put more emphasis on the benefits and fun of exercise.  Also, being aware on many levels regarding our environment; recycling, recognizing resources and options.  The effect/impact of different industries on our world, etc.  Solutions to Global Warming.

Included a few links below you may find interesting and they substantiate your very valid ideas: