The National Center on Safe Supportive Learning Environments recently released a brief, School-Based Physical Fitness and the Link to Student Academic Outcomes and Improved School Climate, outlining the growing body of evidence related to the value of school-based physical fitness. The brief outlines research suggesting that physical activity (PA) and physical education (PE) programming offered within the context of the school day are not only essential for children’s healthy development, but are positively linked to children’s academic achievement. In addition the report indicates that, when carefully designed and implemented, these activities have the potential to positively impact school climate and conditions for learning in schools.
Webinar Description
This webinar discussed the research informing the brief; outlined implications for school personnel involved in PA and PE programming; and offered practical strategies, tools, and resources schools can use to strengthen the quality of their school-based physical activity programs to better promote physical health, and to create a more productive and supportive learning environment.
Learning Objectives
As a result of participating in this webinar, participants will be able to:
- Describe the research evidence showing a link between physical activity and academic achievement.
- Explain key recommendations from recent research on physical activity.
- Discuss the connection of physical activity to improved school climate.
- Describe effective strategies for increasing student activity levels.
Presenters
The Webinar was moderated by Norris Dickard (Healthy Students Group Leader at the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Safe and Healthy Students). Subject matter experts for the event will include Dr. Shannon Michael (Health Scientist, School Health Branch Division of Population Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA), Dr. Rebecca London (Research Professor, University of California Center for Collaborative Research for an Equitable California, UC, Santa Cruz), and Josh Grant (Coordinator, Office of Middle/Secondary Learning, West Virginia Department of Education).
Audience
This webinar is appropriate for all recipients of Carol M. White Physical Education Program grants, physical fitness and physical education staff and all educational and organizational staff with an interest in student physical fitness.