In celebration of National Physical Education and Sport Week, is highlighting the many ways physical education empowers students to build confidence, stay active and develop lifelong skills.
At Wheaton High School, physical education is centered on helping students develop the knowledge and habits needed for lifelong health and wellness. One of the program’s most distinctive features is its fitness-centered, team-teaching model, where students and teachers work together through lessons designed to help all students meet grade-level outcomes.
During group fitness lessons, students rotate through stations focused on key concepts such as cardiovascular endurance, strength, flexibility, balance and coordination. These experiences are intentionally designed to give students multiple ways to engage and demonstrate learning through physical participation, reflective exit tickets and real-world connections to their PE classes, from yoga to team sports.
“Today, the main goal of PE is to impact students’ health, fitness and wellness for a lifetime,” said physical education teacher Alex Theoharis. “It’s not about winning a game or being the best.”
That philosophy shapes every aspect of the program. Teachers create a supportive environment that emphasizes effort, personal improvement and growth over competition. Lessons are adapted to meet students where they are, with flexible grouping, modified equipment and varied roles—from participating and observing to leading activities—so every student can succeed.
Theoharis says the program also challenges common misconceptions about physical education, showing that PE goes beyond traditional games to focus on overall wellness, helping students build confidence, manage stress and strengthen both their bodies and minds.
“Through Physical Education, students can improve their confidence and experience how physical activity can strengthen their mindset and relieve stress,” he said.
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Student voice and choice also play a key role. The PE schedule is built around student interests, giving them ownership in selecting courses that align with their goals. That engagement carries through to the program’s culminating event, the Gilbert Games, where students showcase their skills, teamwork and leadership.
Additionally, every PE teacher at Wheaton coaches at least one sport, helping foster meaningful relationships with students and strengthen the school community beyond the classroom. Theoharis said support from leadership has also helped the program continue to grow through professional development, collaboration and shared goals focused on student success.
“I attribute the success of our PE program to our amazing students,” Theoharis said. “Year after year, students at Wheaton are eager and willing to actively engage in PE, which gives us the freedom to explore new ideas and provide meaningful learning experiences.”
Read the original article at mcps