Warren Schools to Offer Phys-Ed Options During Recess

Warren, NJ -- Warren Township Schools will begin offering physical education options for students during recess for the 2016-17 school year.

The pilot program will be implemented in the 2016-17 school year as part of the school system’s effort to provide 150 minutes of physical education for students in Grades 1 through 12 as required for all public schools in New Jersey.

“This structured pilot program is not a dramatic departure from the opportunities currently available to students during recess time,” Elizabeth Nastus, Warren Township Schools Interim Superintendent stated in a letter to parents. ”What will be different is that more varied opportunities will be available for all students to select and to participate in some form of physical activity or exercise. Each student will be required to choose his or her own activities according to personal preference.”

The Board of Education considered a few options before deciding on the pilot program.

Those options included:

• an extended school day to add more physical education classes;
• reduction of core subject areas to increase physical education classes during the regular school day;
• physical education opportunities during recess time.

To prepare for the pilot program, principals are asking faculty and students what types of activities they would like to see incorporated.

“At the end of the 2016-17 school year, a review of the pilot program will be presented to the board,” Nastus said. “At that time, it will be determined whether or not the program will be continued. Parent feedback is welcome.”