For those of you who are new to Hazelwood Elementary, my name is Anne Fisher, and I am the physical education specialist.  This year I will be teaching each class of first through fifth graders on a weekly rotation basis. Physical education is an important part of your child’s total education, and parental support is a vital element in the educational process.  As with other subjects, physical education deals with a wide range of abilities and performance levels.  One of my expectations is that each student will work at his/her highest level in all physical education activities.  Students are also expected to cooperate with others and demonstrate good sportsmanship.  These components help to create a fun and successful learning experience for all.

Safety concerns and classroom expectations will be clearly presented to students.  Thus, students who choose not to follow safety rules or expectations will first be given a verbal reminder.  Any subsequent infraction will result in “Think Time,” in which the student goes to another classroom and identifies, through the use of a form, his/her inappropriate behavior and devises a replacement behavior.  Severe behavior (i.e., hitting others, unsafe use of equipment, etc.) and chronic inappropriate behavior will result in either detention or a conference with the principal and/or parent, depending upon the infraction.

Students who follow rules and expectations will receive verbal reinforcement, have the opportunity to assist with equipment, and contribute to a positive physical learning environment.

As the physical education program at Hazelwood gets underway this year, I am asking for your assistance in making P.E. a fun and safe learning experience for your child.  In order for your child to participate in all activities to the fullest extent and with the greatest success, please note the following guidelines as first steps towards a successful year in P.E.

                          Physical Education Guidelines

 †Appropriate Footwear—Shoes with non-marking soles that are designed for physical/sport activities are required.  Boots (rain, snow, hiking, cowboy, etc.), cleats, sandals, “dress shoes,” platform sneakers, Heelys, and backless sneakers ARE NOT safe shoes to wear during physical activity and/or can cause damage to the gym floor.  The shoes do not need to be new; however, they must be clean and dry.  Students may keep a pair of shoes in the classroom to be worn during P.E.  Students who choose to wear inappropriate shoes will be asked to sit out during activities.
 
 †Comfortable Clothing—Students are often asked to move upside down and on the ground.  Therefore, dresses without shorts underneath and “best clothes” are not appropriate.  Tight or excessively baggy clothing (including pants that drag on the ground) hinders movement and therefore should not be worn for physical education, nor should clothing that has gotten wet and/or muddy during recess.  Students who fail to comply with the described dress code will be asked to sit out during activities.  Jewelry can also restrict movement and is a safety concern for all.  Bracelets, necklaces, large earrings, and rings should not be worn during physical activity.
 †Maximum Participation—If your child is unable to participate in physical education, a written excuse or an email from you or a physician is required.  If an injury allows some participation, please specify in the note which activities are appropriate for your child.

If you have questions or concerns, please call me at Hazelwood, 253-931-4740, or send me an e-mail, afisher@auburn.wednet.edu