Tools for Observing 
Quality Physical Education

Are the children in your family and community receiving high quality physical education? Visit your school(s) and use the following tools and information to assess the quality of the physical education program. 

• Why Children Need Physical Education

• What are the key components of a quality physical education program?

• Physical Education Trends in Our Nation's Schools-A Survey of Practicing K-12 Physical Education Teachers  [ pdf ]

• For Use By Principals:
  Suggested Job Interview Questions for Prospective Physical Education Teachers

• School Physical Education Program Checklist [ pdf ]

The following resources can help you evaluate the quality of instruction and the quality of your physical education program.

Guidance Documents

• Physical Education Teacher Evaluation Tool [ pdf ]

• The Difference Between Physical Education and Physical Activity 

Standards, Guidelines and Position Statements  

• National Standards for Physical Education

• Appropriate Practices for Physical Education Documents

• Read and print position statements that describe and support quality physical education, recess, after-school physical activity programs, and interscholastic and youth sports including: What Constitutes a Highly Qualified Physical Education Teacher?[pdf]

Program Recognition for Physical Education

• Learn about and visit STARS schools whose physical education programs have been nationally-recognized for meeting national standards and guidelines