School districts in the United States allow students to be exempted from physical education for a variety of reasons, according to the School Health Policies and Practices Study (or SHPPS), which is conducted periodically by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to assess school health policies. The problem with these exemptions is that they can diminish the importance of and participation in physical education and physical activity in general.
Common Reasons Why Kids Miss or Are Excused From Gym Class
If your kid, or your school district, is using one of these excuses, it’s time to push back so your student gets the healthy activity she needs.
Gym Class Isn’t Required
While the great majority of school districts make physical education a requirement, some don’t, according to the SHPPS report. That could mean hundreds of schools that don’t have to offer PE. Is your child’s one of them?
Your Child Was Excluded From Gym Class Due to Bad Behavior
Many school districts prohibit, or at least discourage, this practice.
Your Child Has a Physical, Medical, or Intellectual Disability
Certain injuries, such as a concussion or broken bone, require a temporary absence from gym class. If your child has longer-term special needs, he still needs physical activity. He could get it through inclusion in a traditional class; through adapted classes or equipment; and/or with the help of a teaching assistant. This should all be spelled out in your child’s 504 plan or individual education plan (IEP).
Gym Class Was Canceled for Test Prep or Other Academic Priorities
The SHPPS found that many of schools allow students to be excused from PE so they can prepare for tests, complete remedial work, or receive instruction in another class.
Your Child Is Taking Online PE
Yes, online PE is an option for some students. And sometimes it’s a very good one. Just be wary if it’s something your school district is using to mask a lack of resources for traditional gym classes.
Your Child Tested out of Gym Class
Some schools exempt students from physical education if they have achieved “positive, passing, or high physical fitness test scores,” according to the SHPPS. This makes sense for some teens who are physically fit and active and will continue to be active even if they aren’t attending gym class regularly.
Your Child Participates in Sports or Other School Activities
In some schools, kids can be excused from gym class if they also participate in community or school sports, or even other school activities like band or choir.
Your Child Is Busy With Community Service or Vocational Training
There is only so much time in the school day, and sometimes something has to give. If this exemption applies to your kid, make sure she’s getting sufficient physical activity outside of school.
Your Child Doesn’t Participate in Gym Class for Religious Reasons
Again, if this is the case in your family, find other ways for your child to be physically active—if not every day, then at least several days a week.
