HEALTH
We believe that a positive, health oriented school climate recognizes that health is intimately linked to learning. According to the Health Framework for California Public Schools, children may make lifestyle choices that adversely affect their current and future health; because of this, “as a society we are all responsible for supporting the health of young people (and) schools … are essential partners in the required collaborative effort” (1994, p.v). At Topanga, we take an active role called for by the Framework by developing and promoting the physical, mental, emotional, and social health of students. Teachers integrate district adopted programs through Health Education Programs, Too Good for Drugs and Second Step. We are participating in health awareness activities such as Red Ribbon Week, Jump Rope for Heart and healthy lunch (snack bar) integrated with the science curriculum. We also feel fortunate to have been one of the first schools to offer a healthy salad bar option to our students and staff.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Teachers acknowledge the immediate as well as the lifelong benefits of physical education for children. The Physical Education Framework for California Public Schools (CA Dept. of Education, 1994) states that the “child who is well educated physically is likely to become a healthy adult who is motivated to remain healthy” (p.1). Further, the framework states that “the healthy, physically active child is more likely to be academically motivated, alert, and successful” (p.2). Accordingly, physical educational at Topanga focuses on students developing necessary skills identified in the framework: movement skills and movement knowledge; selfimage and personal development; and social development. Our physical education curriculum is integrated into regular classroom planning, and meeting the State requirement of 100 minutes per week.
Due to our unique physical surroundings, students have the exposure to hiking on a regular basis. Teachers encourage all students to participate in physical education and to develop their sportsmanship skills. Our curriculum counters traditional physical education approaches, which “emphasized competition, games, sports and native athletic ability” (p.1). Through the curriculum, we fully endorse the belief that “physical education promotes the social skill and cooperation that are increasingly viewed by educators today as essential for success in school” (p.2). A coach position is funded by Topanga Enrichment Programs and will continue as long as funding allows. This coach designs Physical Education programs as well as recess and lunch activities. This is a contract, which is reviewed yearly. In the 5th grade students participate in the state mandated physical fitness testing.
