Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ Physical Education Program has been named as a model program for North America by the United Nations’ Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in their case study report, “Quality Physical Education”. This publication was developed in partnership with the European Commission, the International Council of Sport Science and Physical Education, the International Olympic Committee, the United Nations Development Programme, the United Nations Children’s Fund, the United Nations Sport for Development and Peace, and the World Health Organization. This recognition is given to the school district for transforming the focus of physical education from traditional sports to other activities with a fitness focus that children and adolescents enjoy, setting a high standard for others to follow.
Students have become the center of Miami-Dade’s program design and activity choices. The curriculum focuses on innovative activities, wellness centers, and a robust water sports program where students want to continue participation. These programs coupled with appropriate technology will get them moving.
According to the study, 61 percent of students passed five out of six of the measures outlined on the FITNESSGRAM; students developed inclusiveness and collegiality among their peers; and positive changes in nutrition and attitudes toward activity were observed to have been transferred to the home environment.
For additional information, please contact Dr. David K. Moore, Assistant Superintendent, Office of Academic Support, at 305-995-1405, or Dr. Jayne D. Greenberg, District Director, Physical Education and Health Literacy at 305-995-1963.
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