At The Country School, our Physical Education program is grounded in the national standards of SHAPE America (Society of Health and Physical Educators). We believe that physical education is essential to the development of the whole child—supporting not only physical health, but also social-emotional growth, confidence, and lifelong wellness habits.
Our mission is to inspire every student to embrace an active, healthy lifestyle through engaging, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate experiences. Our curriculum is designed to ensure that all students:
Demonstrate competence in a variety of movement skills and physical activities
Apply movement principles to improve motor skills and performance
Engage in regular physical activity and fitness development
Understand and value personal and social responsibility in physical settings
Respect individual differences and embrace cooperation and sportsmanship
Recognize the role of physical activity in fostering joy, self-expression, and social interaction
By promoting these principles, we aim to cultivate lifelong learners who view physical activity as a key to a fulfilling and balanced life.
Lower School PE (Grades Pre-k - 4)
In Lower School, the focus is on building a foundation for physical literacy. We introduce and develop fundamental motor skills, coordination, and basic fitness concepts in a fun and supportive environment.
Each class meets twice a week for 45 minutes, and students should wear sneakers to ensure safe participation.
Core Skill Areas:
Locomotor Movements: running, hopping, skipping, leaping, galloping, and sliding
Spatial Awareness: understanding boundaries, directions, and body positioning
Balance and Coordination
Fitness Foundations: age-appropriate cardio, strength, and flexibility activities
Movement Concepts: chasing, fleeing, dodging, jumping, landing, and balancing
Introductory Sport Skills
Effort and Relationship Skills: working with partners and groups respectfully
Our primary goal in K–2 is to establish the confidence and physical competence that will support active lifestyles both in and outside of school.
Upper School PE (Grades 5-8)
Upper School PE expands upon the foundational skills taught in Lower School by introducing more advanced motor skills, sport-specific techniques, and a broader variety of physical activities.
Fifth grade classes meet twice a week for 60 minutes, and students are required to dress out in their school-issued PE uniforms. Proper athletic footwear is also essential for safety and participation.
Focus Areas for Grades 5–8:
Locomotor Skills: running, skipping, hopping, leaping, jumping, etc.
Non-locomotor Skills: balance, weight transfer, flexibility, and body control
Fitness Training: aerobic conditioning, strength training, and flexibility
Lead-up and Modified Games: introducing rules, strategy, and teamwork
Sport-Specific Units: individual, partner, and team sports
Dance and Rhythm Activities
Personal and Social Responsibility: respectful participation and self-reflection
We emphasize participation, effort, and growth over competition, while fostering an inclusive atmosphere where students are encouraged to challenge themselves, support their peers, and have fun.
