2011 District Teacher of the Year
Elementary School

- Central District -

Name: Elaine Rosquist School Name: Fireside Elementary School Street Address: 845 West Dahlia Street City/State/Zip: Louisville, Colorado 80027 Phone: 720-561-7900 E-mail: Elaine.rosquist@bvsd.org

Describe one or two of the newest and/or innovative activities that you do with your students in physical education?

This year I implemented the "Action Based Learning Labs" developed by Jean Bladyes-Madigan and Cindy Hess. The labs are based on research that supports the link of movement and physical activity to increased academic performance. Skillastics new "Character is Cool" movement activity is very creative and has fun activities that keep the students moving within their target zone. I love to bring in new activities and Fitstix's for upper body endurance are great because the students enjoy hearing the sound of the sticks shaking. My students will try geo-motion mats for the first time next week; I think they will have a blast moving and learning math facts. Mileage club is a program I offer four times a week right after school. It is a free program where students, family members and friends can come to walk, jog or run with their teacher and keep track of the distance they complete.

What is your particular expertise in regard to teaching physical education – what is the focus of your teaching?

A quality physical education program must reflect not only the National standards but also the new Colorado standards and the standards of each individual school district. I have an important role as an educator to help all my students develop health-related fitness, physical competence, cognitive understanding, and positive attitudes about physical education so they truly understand what it means to live an active, healthy lifestyle. I am a life-long learner and hold a National Board Certification in Early and Middle Childhood Physical Education.

What is your philosophy of teaching physical education?

I believe physical education must be taught by a licensed physical education teacher who is committed to a life time of learning and reflection. Someone who is a good role model and understands what it takes to lead an active healthy lifestyle. Knowledge about standards, lesson planning, classroom management, childhood development, disabilities, best practices and sequential development of curriculum are key components needed to run a successful program. Students must have the opportunity to learn developmentally appropriate material in a safe and supportive environment each and every day!

What does being a physical education Teacher of the Year mean to you?

Serving as a NASPE Teacher of the Year is an incredible honor. This journey has already provided knowledge I can use in the classroom. I have the opportunity to with work with the top four elementary teachers in the Nation and will grow from this experience. As an advocate for physical education, I have traveled to Washington D.C. for National "Speak Out" day meeting with Congressmen and Senators about bills that support our efforts to keep students active and healthy.

What do you do to help other physical education teachers plan and implement exemplary programs?

This year I helped new physical education teachers in our district through their induction process. Giving first year teachers a mentor and valuable resources and an open line of communication will enable them to develop a strong teaching style and quality program. I am also a member of the elementary task force and curriculum committees that work to align curriculum and show research on why our school district should continue to value teaching to the whole child which includes art, music, physical education and instrumental music programs. Presenting a four hour pre-convention workshop at our state convention allowed me to share a variety of topics such as: large group games, fitness/nutrition, dance/rhythm, cooperative games, assessments and ideas for adapted learners. Within our school district I help present activities during professional development days.

Any quotes from students or families members about you as a physical education teacher, or the classes taught by you?

"Thanks for teaching me how to exercise and eat right to stay healthy!"

"Thanks for being my P.E. teacher I enjoyed how nice and cool you are."

"Cheese-head!"

"Elaine is the physical education teacher every parent wishes their child could have. She is a teacher who challenges her students every day to do their best and try new things."

List three of your "favorite" conference session titles that you have presented, with a brief description.

"Amazing Activities! Awesome Ideas!" Four hour preconvention workshop with my fourth graders. This workshop covered a wide range of activities.

"Dance Ribbons/ Square Dance" How to use dance ribbons as an assessment tool for sequencing, patterns and routines. Basic square dance movement.

"Fitness Stations" Stations include: exercise mats, hula hoops, power ladder, fit-ball, strength bands, mini hurdles, push up activities, aerobic bowling, tire tubes, yoga, steps, dot mats, vertical jump, broad jump, agility cones, three blocks, jump stick, etc…

Any additional major teaching awards you have received:

• Nominated for the "Impact on Education Award"
• Nominated by parents for the "Jared Polis Award"
• Superintendent's Honor Roll Boulder Valley School District 2008, 2010, 2011