The primary purpose of the grades K through 6 physical education programs is to enable students to develop competence in fundamental movement skills by providing a wide variety of developmentally appropriate movement experiences and practice opportunities. Learning experiences are designed to use skill themes and movement concepts. Physical fitness, rhythms, educational gymnastics, and games/activities for practice of fundamental movement skills are fully integrated into the curriculum.

At Cunningham Park, we believe in having the maximum number of children active for the maximum amount of time. Our goal is for all students to feel good about themselves by doing their best and trying to improve on what they have done in the past. We strive to instill in students an appreciation for physical activity and promote the “joy of effort” while providing an element of fun and enjoyment through participation.  Activities you can expect your student to come home talking about are throwing and catching, dance, gymnastics, soccer, basketball, volleyball, badminton, floor hockey, mission impossible, jump rope, scoops and fitness.

Students in grades 4-6 will participate in state mandated fitness testing.  This fitness test includes, cadence push-ups, cadence curl ups, the pacer test, the back saver sit-and reach, the shoulder stretch and the trunk lift.  These are all things that can be practiced with no equipment and in small space.  After completing each fitness test students reflect on their scores and write SMARTR goals on how they can continue to improve their personal fitness.  The ability to reflect on personal fitness and set goals is a tool that students will continue to use for the rest of their lives. 

Health concepts will also be introduced in physical education class.  Health concepts you can expect your student to come home talking about are pulse, intensity levels, fitness components, the FITT principal, bones, muscles, joints, macronutrients, calories, cardiorespiratory endurance, and healthy food choices.

Physical education is an important and unique part of the daily instructional program. Not only does it contribute to the overall goals of education, but also contributes to the development and maintenance of fitness, motor skills, social skills, health, and brain development. Physical activity is a method by which learning takes place.