Advocacy Guidelines and Resources

​Unfortunately quality physical education is not happening everywhere. While some of this is due to ineffective teaching practices, we believe the large bulk of responsibility lies with inappropriate education policies (contact hours, class sizes, etc.) and lack of support (professional development opportunities, facilities, etc.).

​Use the resources on this page, and our other advocacy pages, to advocate for quality physical education (policies) in your community.
​Stone Soup Fable (from our documentary)
Who Am I?

Advocacy Guidelines

  • Be proactive rather than reactive. If you wait until your program needs advocacy, it may be too late. ​
  • Communicate to stakeholders via school functions, class website, newsletters, presentations, videos, social media, etc.
  • Start with easy advocacy strategies such using a school bulletin board and building a support team. ​

Advocacy Resources and Toolkits

Advocacy Infographics​

REAL Teacher's Pledge

Reflective Engaged Accountable Life-changing ​teachers are committed to relevant and meaningful quality physical education. REAL teachers use practices that help students develop the skills, knowledge, virtues and dispositions needed to be physically active for the rest of their lives. REAL teachers do not "roll out the ball" or "babysit." They practice their profession with honor and integrity, abstain from using inappropriate teaching practices, follow the standards and guidelines for quality physical education, and continue to learn throughout their careers. REAL teachers are positive role models for children and youth, practicing what they preach by living a healthy active lifestyle.
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Most Important Job in America

"What is the most important job in America? Have you ever thought about this question? It is a job that improves students’ academic results, improves children’s health, reduces children’s stress and anxiety, develops children’s character and confidence, reduces the chance kids will smoke or do drugs, improves national security, and provides a pathway to life-long well-being. It is a job which is overlooked and disrespected by 1000’s of schools in America – It is a physical education teacher. This is the conclusion by a successful executive who has managed major companies and been inducted into two Hall of Fames (Full Press Release)."
Use these graphics, videos, and flyers to spread the message about the importance of physical education. Additional resources for this initiative can be found on PHIT America's webpage.

Advocacy Newsletters, Videos, and Websites

It is important for physical education teachers to inform parents and administrators about the great things they are doing in their classes. Share what you do in your class, why it is important, and how they can support your efforts at home. These advocacy efforts can help garner support for your program from parents and administration if budget cuts become a threat.

Tips and Resources for Presenting to a School Board

  • Show evidence of student learning through personal case studies, assessments, and student testimonials.
  • Be prepared for possible arguments that may be made for not following physical education guidelines and recommendations (ie. course substitutions/waivers).​
  • Share local, state, and national guidelines and recommendations; organizational position statements on physical education; and research studies that support physical activity and physical education.
  • Tailor presentations to the stakeholders you are addressing and collaborate with other education professionals.

Resources to Share With Parents