Starting in the 2024-2025 school year, HC offers an additional adapted physical education class for students with mental challenges and physical disabilities. The class features a number of student aids and teachers that assist the students with challenges they may face. Previously, special education students were mixed among general education students, but now the kids can partake in physical activities with course modifications that increase their engagement. HC staff member Lisa Hager currently teaches the class, and holds information regarding its ins and outs.
Hager explains how the class was developed this school year, and where the idea originated.
“Ms Queenan and I were talking about how we were dissatisfied with [Special Education Students’] engagement in PE and how we could make it better,” Hager said. “ So it was kind of just a collaboration between [Quennan] and I.”
The class also features ten student aids who volunteered to help assist students in the class, and aid with setup.
“[Queenan] has another program within her department where she has peer tutors assist [students with special needs],” Hager said. “There was an application you had to apply for. I mentioned it to my sophomores who I had in Health and PE, so that’s how I got a few people.”
Although the course has received funding from the central office, Hager is still looking for donations for special equipment that her students can use.
“We do need special equipment,” Hager said. “So then (The special education students) can be successful at their level and they’re not scared. That’s the main thing we’re trying to do, is to get them integrated into feeling like they can do an activity without feeling upset, scared, or afraid.”
While students in the adapted PE course learn separately from the Gen-Ed classes, the differences in the group’s curriculum are subtle at most.
“The equipment is different,” Hager said. “But really the skills we learn are the same. We just played soccer. The soccer ball is heavier, so that it doesn’t get away from (The special education students). I found it really unique how volleyballs are lighter and soccer balls are heavier.”
Hager wraps up by mentioning what her favorite part about teaching the adapted physical education class is.
“[My favorite part is] seeing [Special Education Students’] joy and their success,” Hager said.
