Understanding California’s Physical Education Laws
A Breakdown of State Mandates and Exemptions
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California Education Code mandates that all students in grades 1 through 6 must receive a minimum of 200 minutes of physical education instruction every 10 school days. For students in grades 7 through 12, the requirement is a minimum of 400 minutes of physical education instruction every 10 school days.
Exemptions and Alternatives
Students in grades 10 through 12 may be exempted from physical education for up to two years, but only if they pass a physical performance test administered in grade 9. Exempted students must be provided with a variety of physical education elective courses.
Students with disabilities may be exempted from the physical education requirement if their Individualized Education Program (IEP) determines that it is not appropriate. However, the IEP team must consider providing alternative physical activities that meet the student's individual needs.
Quality and Content Standards
California Physical Education Content Standards outline the knowledge and skills that students should acquire in physical education. These standards cover a wide range of topics, including:
Physical fitness
Fundamental motor skills
Movement patterns
Rhythmic skills
Team and individual sports
Lifetime physical activities
The California Department of Education (CDE) provides resources and guidance to schools to help them implement high-quality physical education programs.
Disclaimer: This information is intended for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal advice, please consult with an attorney.
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