We've got a letter here as backup which says gym "shall be taught as a required subject in all grades for all students" (MGL 71, s.3)...does that mean they all have to take it?
It appears that the Commissioner is saying that sports cannot count as gym class.
Some conversation from Mullaney and O'Connell in the lack of understanding this demonstrates of students who participate in sports.
This item reflects the need for creativity and flexibility to meet the physical education requirement for high school graduation. Consider a student enrolled in the music magnet at Burncoat High School. There are two periods – theory and performance – required for music magnet students. Add in 5 core courses – history, English, math, science and foreign language – and the schedule is full. Where will P.E. fit in? If time is taken from the magnet classes for P.E., then the very distinctive that makes BHS a school of choice (a goal of the administration) is diluted. If students have to substitute P.E. for a core course, then the goal of the MassCore – to “help provide students with the academic preparation required for success in post-secondary education and a 21st century workplace” – as mentioned in the backup is contradicted. I’m not opposed to P.E., just opposed to our students losing out.
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