Adapted Physical Education

Adapted Physical Education (APE) is a diverse program that includes developmental gross motor activities, games, sports, and rhythms. These activities are tailored to the interests, abilities, and limitations of students with disabilities who may not be able to safely and effectively participate in the vigorous activities of the general physical education program, the modified general physical education program, or the specially designed physical education program in a special day program. Services are based on need and not generalizations from categorical conditions. The role of the APE teacher is to instruct students in the development of skills and knowledge that enables them to participate independently to the highest degree possible, based on assessment needs. The APE teacher will make appropriate modifications and/or accommodations, allowing the student to participate to their full potential. APE teachers prepare and utilize equipment and materials for the development of skills as it is related to APE. APE teachers conduct ongoing assessments, which focus on both long and short-term needs of the student. APE is a service, not a placement, and is taught by a credentialed teacher with an adapted physical education added authorization. Students must have a special education eligibility to receive APE services.