An interview with Paul Rosengard, Executive Director of SPARK
With access to physical education (PE) shrinking, and the waistlines of our children growing, educators and communities will need to make sure that the activity K-12 students get gives them the best return. To tease out hallmarks of quality, we turned to Paul Rosengard of SPARK. Paul is an author, researcher/educator, and executive director of SPARK programs of San Diego State University (@paulrosengard). Here is the second part of a three-part series. Read part one, and part two.
THRIVING SCHOOLS: How can I to help improve the physical education program in my school?
Paul Rosengard: Here are 3 things every parent can do:
1. ADVOCATE for daily physical education in all grades — delivered by a credentialed physical educator.
2. ENSURE teachers are aligning content and instruction to achieve a goal of 50% or better MVPA (moderate to vigorous physical activity) in every class and that they are promoting staying physical activity away from class.
3. INSIST teachers have access to current resources and professional development opportunities so they can learn new, innovative content and teaching strategies.
Let your voice be heard! Speak to your school’s PE teacher(s) and Principal about your child’s PE program TODAY. If your school’s program does not meet these standards, encourage leaders to learn more about evidence-based programs that can provide new resources and training for teachers: http://www.sparkpe.org/about-us/evidence-based-physical-education/
Click here to download the 3 things every parent can do to help improve the physical education in your school.
THRIVING SCHOOLS: Are there any resources available to help advocate for Quality physical education?
Paul Rosengard: Yes, there are many, here are two:
Visit www.sparkpe.org and find their Research Center.
- Childhood Obesity: Quality Physical Education as a Solution (video)
- We Need More Physical Education in Schools (video)
Visit www.aahperd.org/naspe and find their Advocacy Toolkit.
For free resources to support your physical education program, click here to visit the SPARK website.
SPARK strives to improve the health of children, adolescents, and adults by disseminating evidence-based Physical Education, After School, Early Childhood, and Coordinated School Health programs to teachers and recreation leaders serving Pre-K through 12th grade students.
