Beans Wit Attitude: Physical Education

The Illinois State Board of Education requires physical education for all state schools. Many elementary schools offer recess and high schools have more intense activities and health classes. But there are always ways to get out of P.E. class. And it is starting to show.

According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 64 percent of U.S. citizens are overweight, and the prevalence of obesity among children has more than doubled in the last two decades. For the elementary school population, ages six to 11, the rate increased from 6.5 percent to 17 percent. For middle and high school adolescents, aged 12 to 19, the rate went from 5 percent to 17.6 percent.

In Illinois these numbers are worse. According to the Illinois Association of Park Districts, obesity has tripled in Illinois since 1980. Over 25 percent of children aged 12 to 16 are overweight, while 18 percent of children aged 6 to 10 are overweight.

From a distance, physical education s requirements are a great idea. After a closer look, it is showing its flaws.

Illinois is the only state to require physical education for all grade levels. While we acknowledge our appreciation for setting this standard, the statistics show it is not working. However, instead of removing the curriculum, we believe it should be revamped.

Some high schools offer waivers to students to get out of P.E. class. Regardless, students should be required to partake in another health-related activity, whether it be exercise or a nutrition class. The state should set standards for how much time is dedicated to physical education, but leave establishing the curriculum based on the schools’ resources and financial limits.

The state should also oversee each school remains in compliance with these standards, which will require money. While the economy is currently down, the health of our children cannot be ignored. There are currently no penalties for not complying with physical education requirements, so we believe the state must become more strict. The state should issue required testing for students, similar to math, reading, and science testing. Each district should have their inspector to administer these requirements and chaperon each school.

Controlling the obesity problem must also occur in the lunchrooms. The state should regulate the lunch menus and establish a nutritional standard of what students can eat. This means more fruits and vegetables and less junk food. Their portions should be managed as well.

We also recognize obesity is a personal problem. We are reaching out to parents to support this proposition by doing their parts in managing their children’s health habits. With the combination of school, parents and government, Illinois can help set a standard for all schools in controlling the obesity epidemic.