The Elementary Physical Education (PE) and Adaptive Physical Education (APE) Specialist is responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating a comprehensive physical education program that promotes lifelong fitness, motor skill development, teamwork, and healthy lifestyles for all elementary students. The specialist also provides individualized adaptive physical education services for students with disabilities in accordance with their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), ensuring equitable access to physical education through specialized instruction, accommodations, and collaboration with educational teams.
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Plan and deliver engaging, standards-based physical education lessons for elementary students (PreK–5 or K–6).
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Promote physical fitness, motor development, sportsmanship, teamwork, and healthy decision-making.
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Create a safe, inclusive, and positive learning environment.
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Assess student performance and maintain accurate records of progress.
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Differentiate instruction to meet the diverse learning needs of students.
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Teach movement concepts, fitness principles, cooperative games, and age-appropriate sports skills.
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Maintain equipment and ensure safe use of facilities.
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Enforce school and district safety procedures.
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Organize and support school-wide wellness initiatives and physical activity events.
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Evaluate students referred for Adaptive Physical Education services.
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Develop and implement individualized APE programs aligned with student IEP goals.
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Adapt curriculum, equipment, and instructional strategies to meet students' physical, cognitive, sensory, and behavioral needs.
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Monitor student progress and maintain documentation required for special education compliance.
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Participate in IEP meetings and provide input regarding physical education goals and accommodations.
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Collaborate with special education teachers, occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, school psychologists, and families.
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Recommend adaptive equipment and assistive technology when appropriate.
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Ensure students receive services in the least restrictive environment.
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Work collaboratively with classroom teachers, administrators, and related service providers.
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Communicate effectively with parents and guardians regarding student progress.
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Participate in professional learning communities and district professional development.
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Support district initiatives related to wellness, inclusion, and student achievement.
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Bachelor's degree in Physical Education, Kinesiology, Exercise Science, or related field.
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Valid state teaching license with Physical Education endorsement.
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Certification or endorsement in Adaptive Physical Education (or ability to obtain within district/state guidelines).
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Knowledge of state physical education standards and special education laws.
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Strong classroom management and organizational skills.
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Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
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Master's degree in Physical Education, Adapted Physical Education, Special Education, or related field.
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Experience teaching elementary physical education.
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Experience working with students with disabilities.
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CPR, First Aid, and AED certification.
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Understanding of child growth and motor development.
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Knowledge of inclusive instructional practices.
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Ability to modify activities for a wide range of physical, cognitive, and behavioral abilities.
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Skill in data collection, assessment, and progress monitoring.
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Ability to build positive relationships with students, families, and staff.
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Strong problem-solving and collaboration skills.
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Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
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Ability to demonstrate physical activities and movement skills.
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Frequently stand, walk, run, bend, kneel, lift, and carry equipment up to 50 pounds.
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Ability to supervise students in gymnasiums, playgrounds, and outdoor activity areas.
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Ability to respond quickly during emergencies.
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Elementary school gymnasium, classrooms, playgrounds, athletic fields, and community facilities.
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Exposure to indoor and outdoor weather conditions.
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Moderate physical activity throughout the workday.
