Bill > S2061

This bill amends existing law to require physical education as a mandatory subject in all grades for all students in public and charter schools, focusing on physical competence, health-related fitness, and enjoyment of physical activity, with the goal of benefiting students physically, cognitively, emotionally, and socially. The bill defines "age-appropriate" as suitable for a child's developmental stage and mandates that physical education be evidence-based, including physical activity, fitness, nutrition, and wellness, while allowing exemptions for students with medical certifications. Furthermore, it directs the commissioner of elementary and secondary education, in collaboration with the commissioner of public health, to evaluate current physical education standards and practices from pre-kindergarten through 12th grade, examining aspects like curriculum, class frequency, teacher qualifications, facilities, and recess time, and to make recommendations based on these findings, with the results to be reported to the legislature and made publicly available. Importantly, the bill clarifies that it does not prevent students from participating in Junior Reserve Officers' Training Corps (JROTC) programs during the school day, and the new physical education requirements will take effect for the 2017-2018 school year.