AR HB1456

School districts may grant physical education waivers based on three criteria: physician statement that participation would jeopardize student health, religious beliefs objecting to physical education as official doctrine, or parent/guardian written proof that student participates in outside-school physical activities meeting State Board of Education standards.

Beginning in the 2017-2018 school year, students in grades 9-12 who receive a waiver based on outside physical activity participation are eligible to receive one-half (1/2) unit of physical education credit required for graduation.

Religious objection waivers require that the student's family be members of a recognized religious faith that objects to physical education as part of its official doctrine or creed, not merely personal objection.

The waiver based on outside physical activity requires the parent or legal guardian to submit a school district-prescribed form indicating the student's participation in physical activities equal to or exceeding state standards.