District 64 is pleased to announce that for a second time, Emerson Middle School’s Physical Education program has been selected to receive a Blue Ribbon Award from the Illinois Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (IAHPERD). This five-year redesignation means that Emerson will enjoy this elite Blue Ribbon status for a full decade running through 2022-23.
Emerson PE teachers were congratulated at the August 27, 2018 Board of Education meeting for their outstanding efforts. PE teachers who participated in the spring 2018 review included: (from left) Kelly Van Horn, Lisa Nelson, Emmy Pasier, Aaron Schauer, and (not pictured) Rob DeMano and Pablo Alvarez.
The Blue Ribbon was awarded after an in-depth, rigorous review based on the department’s “exemplary quality and commitment” to state and national standards in physical education. Emerson’s physical education teachers worked together to prepare comprehensive documentation about their outstanding curriculum; instruction; facilities, equipment and financing; medical and safety practices; and administration of the physical education program.
Following a thorough evaluation of its application, a team of educators visited the school on April 25, 2018 to observe the program in action and interview students, parents, teachers and administrators.
Emerson’s program offers a variety of activities, incorporates technology, and provides countless ways for students to improve themselves.
“Between the scope of our curriculum and all of our equipment, students are more likely to be motivated to seek healthy choices that will, hopefully, lead to a desire to maintain lifelong fitness,” the teachers pointed out.
Emerson will proudly continue to display the Blue Ribbon banner in its gym, and teachers will be leading a workshop session at the upcoming IAHPERD conference.