MN HF498

Department of Education must adopt the most recent National Association of Sport and Physical Education kindergarten through grade 12 standards and benchmarks for physical education, with modifications allowed to accommodate state interests while maintaining purpose and integrity.

Department must make available sample assessments for school districts beginning in the 2018-2019 school year to assess student mastery of physical education standards.

Physical education is established as a required academic subject for statewide accountability alongside language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies.

Students may be excused from physical education class with physician documentation, individualized education program approval, federal 504 plan, individualized health plan, or parental request on religious grounds; schools are strongly encouraged not to exclude kindergarten through grade 5 students from recess for punishment.

Physical education must be taught by teachers licensed to teach physical education or provide cocurricular instruction who participate regularly in professional development.