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In 1985, I walked into my new school (my junior high had merged
with the senior high) to news that I had three upper-class classes
and would be teaching an elective, aerobics. The age group was new
and, aerobics? Well, what was that? With no time to prepare, I borrowed
music my colleague was using for her class - and with my class,
choreographed some dance phrases for the first song. I added
several rigorous folk dances and a routine to work the abdominals
and thighs. That would become a forty minute continuous but varied
routine. (See fitness unit in Complete Physical Education Plans
for Grades 7-12, at www.humankinetics.com
for more info). After months of "sweaty" fun, my students
complained that I did not teach aerobics "right."
How could I when my aerobics class, which was dancing, did not
get to lay down on the mats as my colleague's class did?
Not long after, my new principal approached me with the same accusation.
Shaken and yes, angry, after all, I was the professional here, I
defended my use of dance but decided that it was time to learn what
others were doing in the name of aerobics. I put in for a conference,
paid my way to the NYSAHPERD (your district might fund you) and
off I went. The trip was illuminating, fun and exhausting. I learned,
confirmed and networked and, I recommend it.
It should not take a challenge to motivate our attendance at conventions.
Not when we get stale and can profit from new ideas and fresh thinking.
Besides, have you noticed? Despite continuous scientific evidence
espousing the advantage of physical activity, professionally, we
still feel the sting administrative neglect and/or lack of respect
for what we do in the "classroom". For these reasons
and more, the rejuvenation we get from being with our brethren
is a very good thing.
Physical educators attending the conventions that are scheduled
in states all over the country in the fall, can learn new approaches
to the "same old thing," discover new activities and equipment,
see which manufacturers offer sturdy products, find reams of specialty
books and specialty clothing, and have lots of fun. Not only are
many sessions active, and evenings filled with social events, but
where else can you meet old friends?
By the way, if you make it to the National in Philadelphia this
spring, I'd love to meet you. I will be presenting. Meanwhile, have
a great year.
Isobel Kleinman
Secondary Section Editor
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