September 2024 update: The DC Physical Education Standards will be revised during the 2024-25 school year. Click here for more information.
The Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) is pleased to provide new Physical Education standards that reflect the changing landscape and needs of the District of Columbia. These standards provide a clear, skills-based, and age-appropriate approach to developing physically literate individuals who have the knowledge, skills, and confidence to enjoy a lifetime of physical activity.
The District of Columbia’s Physical Education Standards were last approved by the State Board of Education in December 2007. Over the past several months, OSSE has partnered with the State Board of Education to revise the standards, actively engaging with the Society for Health and Physical Educators (SHAPE) America, District agencies, physical educators, and other local stakeholders in the process of ensuring that these standards reflect best-practices and align with SHAPE America’s National Physical Education standards. Numerous experts have generously given their time and expertise in developing these standards.
These standards reflect SHAPE America’s National Physical Education Standards which are considered the optimal set of standards and outcomes for students in this subject area. The national standards were carefully reviewed and modified as necessary to ensure the new standards would meet the needs of the District of Columbia. Reflecting a strong consensus among educators, these standards establish high expectations for all of our students. They detail the knowledge and skills students need to be lifelong physically literate individuals.
As you will see in this document, the new standards are arranged by grade level. Additionally, pre-kindergarten physical education standards are not included in this documents as they are addressed through the District of Columbia Early Learning Standards for our youngest learners. Please see the key terms and examples list attached for additional information.
Related Content: Health Education and Physical Education Standards
