File: JLJ* - Physical Activity

NOTE: Colorado school districts are required by law to adopt a policy on this subject and the law contains some specific direction as to the content or language. This sample contains the content/language that CASB believes best meets the intent of the law. However, the district should consult with its own legal counsel to determine appropriate language that meets local circumstances and needs.

The Board believes students who engage in physical activity as part of the learning environment are healthier and more likely to be engaged learners.

All district students shall be provided opportunities to engage in daily physical activity. The district shall include not less than the minimum required amount of physical activity in the schedules of students attending elementary schools, as such minimums are set forth in state law. Middle school and high school students shall be afforded opportunities for physical activity that are age-appropriate. Students with medical or physical limitations that may affect the student's ability to participate in a scheduled physical activity shall be provided appropriate alternative activities, consistent with federal and state law.

For purposes of this policy, "physical activity" may include but is not limited to:

1. exercise programs

2. fitness breaks

3. recess

4. field trips that include physical activity

5. classroom activities that include physical activity

6. physical education classes

A school shall not substitute non-instructional physical activity for standards-based physical education instruction.

Exceptions to required amounts of physical activity may be allowed for school closures, in accordance with law.

(Adoption date)

LEGAL REFS.: C.R.S. 22-32-136 (policies to improve children's nutrition and wellness)

C.R.S. 22-32-136.5 (3)(a) (physical activity policy required)

CROSS REFS.: ADF, School Wellness

JLCA, Physical Examinations of Students

NOTE 1: The Board may require the district's designated individual or committee charged with ensuring compliance with the local wellness policy, or the district or school accountability committees, to review and advise the Board with regard to its physical activity policy.

NOTE 2: The following minimum minutes of physical activity are set forth in law:

o full-day elementary students if classes meet five days/week = 600 minutes/month
o full-day elementary students if classes meet fewer than five days/week = 30 minutes/day
o half-day elementary students if classes meet five days/week = 300 minutes/month
o half-day elementary students if classes meet fewer than five days/week = 15 minutes/day

NOTE 3: In accordance with law, a school providing more than the minimum minutes specified in law shall not decrease the amount of physical activity as a result of the Board's policy, unless necessary to do so in response to budgetary constraints. C.R.S. 22-32-136.5(3)(f).

NOTE 4: The State Board is encouraged to include in the school performance report information concerning each district's incorporation of physical activity into the school day.

[Revised May 2014]