BEYOND THE HEADLINES
November 20, 2011
Physical Education
Hosted by ABC7's Cheryl Jennings
This week's episode of "Beyond the Headlines" we are talking about a decline of physical education and the importance of it in our schools.
The State Board of Education uses a physical fitness test called the FITNESSGRAM® as the standard for students in California public schools. It is divided into six different fitness areas that offer a degree of defense against diseases that come from inactivity.
According to the California Department of Education, only 29% of fifth graders meet the requirements of all six areas of physical fitness.
California's education code requires elementary schools to offer 200 minutes of physical activity every 10 days. However, a study found more than half of schools failed to provide the required minutes. The California Court of Appeals ruled that parents can force educators to provide the minimum amount of physical activity.
Studio Guests
Dr. Amy Chow, M.D.
Olympic Gold Medalist
Pediatrician, Palo Alto Medical Foundation
www.pamf.org
Bill Huyett
Superintendent, Berkeley Unified School District
www.berkeleyschools.net
Shannon Ladner-Beasley
Coordinator, Safe Routes to Schools
Contra Costa Health Department
www.cchealth.org
Additional Information
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