#AdaptedPE Newsletter 20 (Week of 01/13/2025)

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This week, we’re thrilled to highlight Tara J. McCarthy, an accomplished Adapted PE teacher making waves in the field. Teaching for CASE, a 2022 Chicago Tribune #1 Small Business, Tara has been honored as the 2018 N.E.D. and IAHPERD Teacher of the Year, as well as the 2019 SHAPE Midwest District Teacher of the Year. I had the privilege of meeting Tara in 2019 at the ISAPA Conference at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, where her passion for inclusive education and innovative teaching practices was evident. Her work continues to inspire educators and create meaningful opportunities for students of all abilities.

Student self assesses overall behavior during PE. Leaves PE with positive feedback and sense of accomplishment. @IAHPERD @ILAdaptedPE @AAHPERD @CASEDupage @SHAPE_America #SHAPETampa #ape #AdaptedPE pic.twitter.com/7AkIsssUS6

— Tara J. McCarthy (@AdaptedPE22) October 16, 2018

What’s Unique about this Conference? #healthed #physed #rec #dance #athletics #adaptedpe pic.twitter.com/Vmm4WUBAkr

— CAHPERD (@CAHPERD) January 8, 2025

The California Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (CAHPERD) 2025 State Conference is set to be a landmark event, taking place January 22-25, 2025, at the Pasadena Convention Center in Pasadena, California. This year, CAHPERD has joined forces with the National Adapted Physical Education Conference (NAPEC) to deliver an extraordinary professional development experience. The collaboration promises an expanded lineup of workshops, keynote presentations, and networking opportunities, all with a focus on inclusivity and innovation in physical education. The conference kicks off with Wednesday Workshops on January 22, followed by the main events from January 23-25. Be sure to secure your spot and join professionals from across the nation in advancing active, inclusive, and healthy learning environments. For more information and to register, visit the official conference page . Don’t miss this historic gathering of minds and ideas!

Talking Adapted PE Podcast: Brad Hunter

2025 SHAPE America Eastern District APE Teacher of the Year – Brad Hunter joins the show. Brad and Chris discuss what Brad’s job looks like in Baltimore. Brad also discusses his role as the President of MAPEC and what the goals of MAPEC. Before their time was up Brad shared what his favorite pieces of equipment.

What’s New in Adapted PE: Adam Forbes

Welcome back to another exciting episode of What’s New in Adapted Physical Education (APE) where we sat down with Dr. Adam Forbes, a new faculty member at Norfolk State University, to discuss his insights and research on parental perceptions of APE and the critical role parents play in enhancing these services. In these conversations, Dr. Forbes emphasized that parental involvement is key to the success of APE programs and highlights the need for clear communication between APE teachers and parents. In addition, Dr. Forbes explains that “parents need to see the value in APE, but that starts with us showing them what their children are achieving.” The conversation continues by discussing actionable strategies to help APE teachers engage parents more effectively, such as visual communication and highlighting the benefits. By improving communication, developing meaningful relationships, and sharing the impact of APE, PE/APE teachers can create higher quality PE experiences for students with disabilities. As Forbes concluded, “APE isn’t just about physical activity—it’s about creating opportunities for children to thrive in every aspect of their lives. Parents are a critical part of that journey.”

Erik Danielson has introduced archery to his Adapted PE classes, using innovative adaptations to ensure all students can participate and succeed. From specialized equipment to individualized supports, these creative approaches highlight the power of inclusive teaching. Check out the inspiring videos from his recent activities, where students demonstrate teamwork, confidence, and joy through this engaging sport. Erik’s work reminds us how thoughtful planning can make any activity accessible and meaningful for every learner.

#UnifiedPE #Archery 🏹 this week and next week. #Inclusive #AdaptedPE pic.twitter.com/tmj65FEUAz

— Erik Danielson (@ErikDanielsonPE) January 10, 2025

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