St. Margaret’s is expanding its physical-education curriculum beginning in the 2019-2020 school year to more closely align with the school’s health and wellness strategic priorities. Under a new name—personal fitness and wellness—the department will promote and establish habits in students toward lifelong fitness, well-being and mindfulness.

 

“We recognize that the integration of physical, emotional, social and mental health is imperative to the development of the whole child,” said Patrick Bendzick, director of athletics and physical education. “We strive for students to pursue personal wellness that positively nurtures them today and the rest of their lives, and we hope this approach to our curriculum will help set that foundation.”

 

Lower School will continue taking part in personal fitness and wellness two to three times a week with a focus on developing skills in leadership, sportsmanship and lifelong fitness. In addition, students will be introduced to the practice of mindfulness.

 

The Middle School curriculum will be enhanced to build a foundation for personal wellness as well as teach students how to identify and develop an individualized fitness plan. It incorporates personal goal setting, exercise physiology, strength training, cardiovascular movement, mindfulness, and interdependent thinking for social-emotional development.

 

The Upper School health and human development class, taken by freshmen and sophomores, will be enhanced by individualizing each student’s training routine based on needs and interest.