Welcome to Adapted / Physical Education K-12!

Learn It! Do It! Embrace It!

  • Overview
    Portland Public Schools considers physical education as part of a well-rounded education. PPS K-12 Adapted/Physical Education emphasizes the development of physically literate individuals. Our courses facilitate student success regardless of differences in cultures, backgrounds, and learning styles, honoring the PPS Equity Policy. 
     
    Curriculum
    The emphasis of our curriculum is on a student’s physical, cognitive, and social experience, which includes high-quality, skills-based instruction.  We use developmentally appropriate methods and welcome pedagogies that help students achieve success in all the standards outlined by the state. Our goal is to have students engaged in moderate to vigorous physical activity as often as possible. See the Oregon Department of Education's page Physical Education for more information.
     
    Adapted Physical Education (APE)
    A specially designed instruction for students who require adaptations and modifications to participate safely and successfully in Physical Education. APE includes physical and motor fitness, fundamental motor skills, participation, static balance, knowledge, and understanding of various lifelong sports and activities.
     
    Adapted PE teachers are certified to provide a continuum of services ranging from direct service to consultation, assessment, program planning, advocacy, and behavior management strategies. To learn more, visit: Adapted Physical Education National Standards

Physical Education Standards K-12

  • Standard 1
    The physically literate individual demonstrates competency in a variety of motor skills and movement patterns.

    Standard 2
    The physically literate individual applies knowledge of concepts, principles, strategies and tactics related to movement and performance.

    Standard 3
    The physically literate individual demonstrates the knowledge and skills to achieve and maintain a health-enhancing level of physical activity and fitness.

    Standard 4
    The physically literate individual exhibits responsible personal and social behavior that respects self and others.

    Standard 5
    The physically literate individual recognizes the value of physical activity for health, enjoyment, challenge, self-expression and/or social interaction.

Parent and Community Resources

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Our Team

Dr. Jenny Withycombe
pronouns: she/her
Assistant Director for Health & Adapted/Physical Education PK-12
hape@pps.net
Vanessa Peña-La Torre
pronouns: she/her
SAY Wellness Grant Program Manager, 9-12 Sexual Health
Alana Burny
pronouns: she/her
Adapted Physical Education TOSA
Lonzo Urbina
pronouns: he/him
Adapted Physical Education TOSA
Elena Beeck
pronouns: they/them
Business Operations Specialist
Rachel Toback
pronouns: she/her
Program Manager CDC Mental Health Grant YRBS Coordinator