Welcome to the #AdaptedPE Newsletter!
Your weekly source for innovative teaching strategies, tools, and trends in Adapted Physical Education. From engaging activities to equipment recommendations and professional development, we’re here to help you make a positive impact on students of all abilities. Stay inspired, informed, and connected all year long—subscribe today!
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Katie H, Lisa D, Joy, and Eileen S

✨🌟 Teacher Spotlight 🌟✨
Each week, we highlight an inspiring educator in Adapted PE, showcasing their strategies, successes, and impact on students
Teacher Spotlight: Katie Smith
This week, we’re featuring Katie Smith, a Certified Adapted PE Teacher (CAPE) from Frederick, MD. Katie was recognized as SHAPE America Eastern District’s 2022 Adapted PE Teacher of the Year and SHAPE Maryland’s 2020 Adapted PE Teacher of the Year. In addition to her work in Adapted PE, she is also a 200-hour Registered Yoga Teacher and shares practical teaching resources through her Teachers Pay Teachers store. Her materials include helpful visuals that support inclusive and engaging PE instruction. Check out her resources here: Katie’s Adapted PE Store.
Classroom Highlight
One of Katie’s favorite tools for working on tracking, reaching, and catching is a horizontal fan propped up on cones to help with air circulation. This setup makes it easier for students to engage with scarves, balloons, and even implements like lacrosse sticks to fit different unit themes. A simple but effective way to create engaging movement experiences!
A horizontal fan (propped up on cones for air circulation) is one of our favorite things to help us work on tracking/reaching and catching- we love using scarves, balloons, and even adding implements (lacrosse sticks) to use for different units! 🥍🏈 #fcpsPE #adaptedPE pic.twitter.com/yGiCWabFXR
— Katie Smith (@RockCreekFCPSPE) February 6, 2025

📰✨ Adapted PE News ✨📰
Stay informed with the latest news, ideas from the field, and happenings in #AdaptedPE.
Bridging Ability and Activity with Assistive Technology in Adapted P.E.
Countdown to SHAPE America 2025 – Baltimore!
We’re gearing up for our presentation, “Bridging Ability and Activity with Assistive Technology in Adapted PE,” happening at SHAPE America in Baltimore! Join Jeff Watkins, Nicole McCoy, and Matt Barker on Thursday, April 3, 2025, from 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM (Room 314-315) for an interactive session on how assistive technology is transforming adapted physical education.
This week’s Assistive Technology Highlight: 🎾 Pickleball Launcher with Adapted Switches!
In our latest featured video, we showcase a pickleball launcher equipped with three different pickleball-themed switches, allowing players of all abilities to engage in the game. This tool demonstrates how simple adaptations can create more inclusive and engaging PE experiences.
Stay tuned each week as we share more exciting assistive technology leading up to our session! See you in Baltimore!
📚 Principles and Methods of Adapted Physical Education New Edition Alert! 📚
Coming this June – the 13th edition of Principles and Methods of Adapted Physical Education! 🎉 This classic text continues to be a must-have resource for building and teaching a successful Adapted PE program.
A special shoutout to the awesome Dr. Melissa Bittner of CSULB and all contributors for their dedication to advancing the field of #AdaptedPE!
📖 Learn more & request a review copy: 👉 Link
Coming in June, new edition of Principles and Methods of Adapted Physical Education! Build and teach a successful adapted PE program with this classic text, now its 13th edition! Learn more and request a review copy 👉 https://t.co/LV7UPeDrbk #adaptedPE #adaptedphysicaleducation pic.twitter.com/ZYuO6y88Xa
— HumanKineticsPhysEd (@HumanKineticsPE) January 30, 2025
Exciting Virtual Webinar Collaboration!

📢
We’re excited to share that MAPEC and VAPEC are teaming up to promote an upcoming virtual webinar! This session will feature @Coach_J_Porter, highlighting the fantastic work he is doing in the weight room with #AdaptedPE students. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn innovative strategies for creating inclusive strength and conditioning programs!
🔗 Register Here: Webinar Registration Link
#AdaptedPE Posts of the Week
“Oscar’s Trashcan” is always a hit in #AdaptedPE! ☺️ @BES_Eagles pic.twitter.com/VRFnAX9PL7
— Burlington Elem. PE (@BES_PE) February 4, 2025
Tried something different and made some sensory stretching workouts for my AS classes. The routine stays the same, just different backgrounds. Some have music, some don’t. I be adding some more. Hope they can help someone else out!#AdaptedPE #PhysEd https://t.co/ibbtwotiY5 pic.twitter.com/kluHWwM5RS
— Nicole McCoy (@NMcCoy_APE) February 3, 2025
Project CAPE scholar Jose Torres @peadaptedadventures utilizing 3D switches station during student teaching! 👏🏼 pic.twitter.com/B4F2kUmEF3
— Long Beach State APE (@CSULB_APE) February 7, 2025
📚🚀 Professional Development 🚀📚
Stay up to date with the latest workshops, podcasts, training sessions, and resources designed to enhance your skills and knowledge in Adapted Physical Education. Explore opportunities for growth, learn new strategies, and connect with experts to continue improving your teaching and support for all students.
Exciting Collaboration: Adapting PE for Students with Diverse Disabilities Webinar!
I’m thrilled to be teaming up with Apply EBP to develop a seminar on adapting PE activities for students with diverse disabilities! 🎉 This on-demand webinar is designed for A/PE teachers, OTs, PTs, and Speech Practitioners, providing practical strategies to modify activities and ensure meaningful participation for all students.
Plus, you’ll earn CEUs while expanding your skills! Check it out here:
👉 Adapting PE Activities for Students with Diverse Disabilities . If you are a member contact me for a 10% discount.
Join Us at the 4th Annual Fairfax County APE Virtual Conference!

I’m excited to be presenting at the 4th Annual Fairfax County Adapted Physical Education Virtual Conference on February 24, 2025! This free, fully virtual event is packed with sessions to inspire and empower APE educators. Join me for my presentations on digital tools for educators and inclusive pickleball strategies.
APENS Study Group: CAPE Certification Preparation
Are you preparing for your CAPE (Certified Adapted Physical Educator) certification? Join the APENS Study Group, hosted by NCPEID, to review key standards and get ready for the exam! Gamification will be used to make the review process fun and engaging, and different standards will be covered each month.
Zoom Link:
Join the Study Group Here
This study group is hosted by CSU Long Beach Project CAPE, the University of Utah, and Wayne State Scholars. Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your skills and connect with others in the field!

2025 Adapted PE Conferences:
| Conference Name | Date | Location | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fairfax County’s Fourth Annual Adapted P.E. National Conference | February 24 2025 | Virginia (VIRTUAL) | Link |
| 11th Annual Adapted Physical Education Conference | March 7, 2025 | University of New Hampshire | Link |
| 2025 SHAPE America National Convention & Expo | April 1-5, 2025 | Baltimore, MD | Link |
| National Adapted PE Conference (with CAHPERD) | RESCHEDULED DATE: April 30- May 3, 2025 | Pasadena, CA | Link |
| Pacific Rim International Conference on Disability and Diversity | April 15–16, 2025 | Honolulu, HI | Link |
| Colorado Adapted Physical Education Conference | May 18-20, 2025 | Mt. Princeton Hot Springs, CO | Link |
| JMU CTA Adapted PE Conference | June 23-27, 2025 | James Madison University, VA | Link |
| NCPEID Annual Conference | July 14-16, 2025 | Hyatt Regency Crystal City at Reagan National Airport, Arlington, VA | Link |
| Minnesota Annual Adapted PE Conference | September 24-26, 2025 | Minnesota | Link |
🎧🎙️ Podcasts to Motivate, Educate, and Inspire 🎙️🎧
Stay connected with the APE community through these insightful podcasts! Tune in to hear expert interviews, innovative strategies, and the latest trends in Adapted Physical Education. Whether you’re looking for professional development, practical tips, or stories that spark new ideas, these podcasts are a must-listen for educators and advocates alike.
Talking Adapted PE Podcast
Hosted by the passionate and knowledgeable Chris Ahrens, the Talking Adapted PE Podcast dives into all things Adapted Physical Education. From innovative teaching strategies to inspiring stories and expert interviews, Chris brings valuable insights to help educators and families support students of all abilities. Tune in to stay informed, inspired, and connected with the APE community!
What’s New in Adapted Physical Education Podcast
Hosted by the insightful Dr. Scott McNamara, this podcast keeps you up-to-date with the latest trends, research, and best practices in Adapted Physical Education. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or advocate, Dr. McNamara brings expert perspectives and practical tips to help you create inclusive, effective PE experiences for all students. Stay current and inspired—tune in today!
AdaptX Podcast
Hosted by Brendan Aylward, AdaptX Podcast amplifies the voices and ideas of individuals who are building accessible businesses, advocating for inclusion, or excelling in adaptive sports.
🌟🤝 Support and Stay Connected 🤝🌟
Building a supportive community ensures we grow stronger together, sharing ideas and strategies that make Adapted PE inclusive for all. Staying connected keeps us inspired, informed, and united in creating positive change!
Help us continue providing valuable resources by purchasing some awesome Adapted PE merchandise! We’ve curated a collection of gear perfect for educators, fitness enthusiasts, and supporters of inclusive physical education. Every purchase goes a long way in keeping our site running and improving.
Check out the merch here.

Stay Connected
Thank you for taking the time to read our Adapted PE newsletter! Your dedication to creating inclusive and engaging physical education experiences is what makes our community so strong. We’re always looking to collaborate and would love to feature your innovative ideas and success stories in future editions. Together, we can continue to improve and inspire each other. Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update, and let’s keep the conversation going!
Newsletter Archive
- #AdaptedPE Monthly Newsletter- DECEMBER 2025
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- #AdaptedPE Monthly Newsletter- MAY 2025
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 33 (Week of 04/21/2025)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 32 (Week of 04/07/2025)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 31 (Week of 03/31/2025)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 30 (Week of 03/24/2025)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 29 (Week of 03/17/2025)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 28 (Week of 03/10/2025)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 27 (Week of 03/03/2025)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 26 (Week of 02/24/2025)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 25 (Week of 02/17/2025)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 24 (Week of 02/10/2025)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 23 (Week of 02/03/2025)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 22 (Week of 01/27/2025)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 21 (Week of 01/20/2025)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 20 (Week of 01/13/2025)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 19 (Week of 01/06/2025)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 18 (Week of 12/16/2024)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 17 (Week of 12/9/2024)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 16 (Week of 12/2/2024)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 15 (Week of 11/18/2024)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 14 (Week of 11/11/2024)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 13 (Week of 11/4/2024)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 12 (Week of 10/28/2024)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 11 (Week of 10/21/2024)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 10 (Week of 10/14/2024)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 9 (Week of 10/7/2024)
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- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 6 (Week of 9/16/2024)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 5 (Week of 9/9/2024)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 4 (Week of 9/2/2024)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 3 (Week of 8/26/2024)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 2 (Week of 8/19/2024)
- #AdaptedPE Newsletter 1 (Week of 8/12/2024)



