On hand to celebrate the 20^th annual hosting of this children's PE conference were some of today's leading figures in American physical education. The following represent just a few of the highlights of the keynote speakers' presentations (as heard by this reporter!):

Ellen Abbadessa explained how her P.R.I.D.E. (Personal Responsibility In Daily Effort) program supported the intent of NASPE Standard #6 - students will demonstrate responsible personal and social behavior in physical activity settings. Ellen explained that at Wagogoner Elementary School in Tempe, Arizona, they were in their second year of working as a team to develop a self-responsibility program for students. Many of these activities were based on the writings of Don Hellison - who just so happened to be sitting in the audience.

Interestingly, Don in his presentation explained that many of his ideas had been adapted by others in ways that he had never envisaged. He emphasized that while these modifications were fine and often exciting to see in practice, it should be understood that they were no longer necessarily reflective of his current thinking. Don then proceeded to explain to the audience that he saw his approach more as a "total" way to teach rather than just a management and discipline system - an interpretation often made by others.

Chuck Corbin offered some practical suggestions for promoting lifelong physical activity especially among middle school students. He recommended teaching students to become self-managers and helping them to take responsibility for themselves so that they will continue to be active outside of PE. He noted that all fitness testing at the middle school should be self-assessment and that grades should never be based on a a child's fitness level.

Frequently we hear of PE programs being cut and requirements being eliminated but Dolly Lambdin pointed out that we have much to celebrate in the progress that has been made in recent years towards improving the quality of children's physical education.

On a somewhat related topic Bob Pangrazi reviewed what he saw as the key characteristics of a quality physical education program. Interestingly, Bob was quick to point out that whether or not people used his ideas or the somewhat different approach proposed by (George) Graham, was to him irrelevant. Regardless of methodology, at least one key characteristic of quality PE programs was their success in preparing students for a lifetime of participation in daily physical activity.

George Graham, who inspired the organization of the first of these conferences 20 years ago concluded the day with insightful comments on what effective teachers do to promote physical activity.

These individuals, together with many other exemplary presenters, ensured that those attending this conference departed with many new and innovative ideas to ponder. It was an inspirational experience that hopefully will help each of us in our efforts to continue promoting quality physical education experiences for children.

(Report by Steve Jefferies)