Adapted Physical Education class provides equal fitness opportunities

Dave Henderson ensures that all State College Area High School students enjoy and benefit from physical education. Henderson leads State High’s adapted PE program for students with physical and intellectual challenges, part of special education. Students with special needs once participated in PE separately, but now they gain more fitness and self-confidence by doing modified activities in a group.

“No matter what, we provide the same curriculum and same experience to every student who comes through the door,” Henderson said. “My job as an adapted PE teacher is to look at each individual who comes into my class and alter things to fit their needs.”

The State College Area School District also offers APE courses at an elementary and middle school, but Henderson is its only teacher officially certified in APE. He’s adept at tailoring training and activities using alternate equipment such as balloons and beach balls for volleyball, or shortened hockey sticks for students in wheelchairs. For a visually-impaired student, he found a ball that made noise so she could track it. For another with chronic blood pressure disorder and a weak heart, he and his two paraprofessionals adapted exercises for a seated position.

Jenny Lee, a State High life skills support teacher, said the classes give her students with multiple disabilities needed exercise for daily movements, as well as the strength and dexterity that foster independence. Their growth delights Henderson, who considers building confidence and self-advocacy as important as boosting endurance and coordination. “My goal is to give them all the experiences they would be having in a general PE class,” he said.