I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to take a moment to share some updates regarding our Health Education (typically held on Mondays) and Physical Education classes, especially in light of the recent flooding in our gym last month. This event has greatly impacted our ability to run PE units that normally require a gym or field space, which make up nearly all of our PE curriculum.
Since the flooding, I’ve been doing my best to adapt our instruction and have been holding classes in the elementary library. We’ve focused primarily on Health Education, and I must say the students have been wonderful through this challenging time. They’ve been completing assignments, engaging in group discussions, and enjoying the activities we’ve been able to offer, all while building new tools for their personal "health toolkits."
As many of you can imagine, managing a gym-less environment has been difficult for us all, and we’ve had to get creative with our solutions. I’ve continued to adjust and make the best of things, but the latest update from the company replacing our gym floor has thrown a curveball – they expect to be working on the project for the next two months. This has certainly been a heavy reality for me as the PE teacher, and I know the students are eager for more physical activity.
So, what’s next? I’ve decided to introduce a "Beginning Yoga Unit" to our classes during PE time. The sessions will be video-led (as I’m a less than proficient yoga instructor) where the students will follow along with a yoga instructor on the screen. While it might sound simple, it has been a challenge with the energy levels and immaturity typical of middle schoolers, but we are working through it together.
I would greatly appreciate your support in reminding your child of the importance of maturity, respect for others, and focusing on the benefits of these sessions. A little mindfulness, kindness, and effort will go a long way in making this a positive experience for everyone. We are also encouraging students to come dressed in appropriate athletic wear to make the most of the class and to embrace a growth mindset throughout the unit. These small actions are what will help us turn the "lemons" of this situation into "lemonade."
Thank you for your understanding and for supporting these positive behaviors at home. I’m confident the students will benefit greatly from the physical and mental health aspects of yoga, and I’m looking forward to seeing their progress in the weeks to come. Please contact me directly if you have any questions or concerns I can help out with.
Warm regards,