#AdaptedPE Monthly Newsletter- MAY 2025

This year I set myself the challenge of posting a weekly newsletter each month, with some health issues and it being more time consuming than I anticipated, I decided to move to a monthly newsletter that will be bigger and better than ever, I aim to pack lots of information for month in each edition. But I need your help, if you are a professor or student with a research paper or study you’d like to share, or a teacher with a good equipment hack, or if you want to shout out a colleague doing great work. Please get in touch via this form.

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Meet Drew Gatto, a first-year Adapted Physical Education (APE) teacher with Fairfax County Public Schools, whose passion and innovation are already turning heads. From launching buddy programs to integrating assistive technology, Drew is creating inclusive opportunities for all students—and he’s just getting started.

As the creator of Inclusive Gainz, a functional strength training platform for students with disabilities, Drew is bridging the gap between fitness and real-world functionality. He’s definitely one to keep an eye on in the future as a rising leader in the field of Adapted PE.

Check out this brilliant build from Nicole McCoy (@NMcCoy_APE)—a simple yet super effective PVC setup designed for students with limited range of motion or grasp strength. Using items already found in the classic APE closet, she created a way for students to shoot a basketball using just a minimal push motion. This is inclusive design at its best—low-cost, high-impact, and totally adaptable! 🤩

Back at it with some quick and easy PVC builds. The idea behind this was to utilize a minimal push motion so Ss with limited range of motion or limited grasp could shoot a basketball. This was all stuff I already had around, gotta love an APE closet 🤩#AdaptedPE pic.twitter.com/46ItooBdpz

— Nicole McCoy (@NMcCoy_APE) April 25, 2025

Okay, this isn’t Adapted PE-related, but I had to share: if you haven’t watched Love on the Spectrum on Netflix yet, stop what you’re doing and add it to your list! Originally an Australian series (also on Netflix), it follows neurodivergent individuals as they navigate the world of dating and relationships—and it is just the sweetest, most heartwarming thing.

Watching it reminded me why working with our students can be the best job in the world. The honesty, joy, and uniqueness each person brings to the screen is a beautiful reminder of how important it is to create spaces where everyone can thrive—whether in love, learning, or movement. Highly recommend it if you need a good smile (and maybe a few happy tears too)!

Have you seen this show? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Huge shout out to our local bowling alley that allowed us to bring extra equipment for a bowling field trip for our Ss in our multiple disability classes. The high five at the end is priceless 🥹 these trips ARE possible and our students deserve these experiences 🎳#AdaptedPE pic.twitter.com/cC7dlnXfKl

— Nicole McCoy (@NMcCoy_APE) April 19, 2025

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A post shared by Mr. Jose (@peadaptedadventures)

Here’s a #DIY #AdaptedPE #Aquatic lap lane divider

Made using #PVC & #PoolNoodles to create a shorter lap lane encompassing certain depths

Also a great visual marker for Ss to swim under/to or mark how far they can glide underwater#VI #APE #PeGeeks #Physed #PE #Swimming #Swim pic.twitter.com/8vTaLO7umb

— Alex Bocian (@AlBocian) April 23, 2025

This is a must see! Mike is a phenomenal presenter and this subject is something all #AdaptedPE teachers should learn https://t.co/ySdCigRWR1

— 🦍Matt Barker ⚽️𝙅𝙪𝙨𝙩𝘼𝙙𝙖𝙥𝙩𝙄𝙩.𝙘𝙤𝙢 (@DigitTheAPE) April 5, 2025

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A post shared by National Consortium (@ncpeid)

🔈🔉🔊Announcing: 🔈🔉🔊

Our annual #AdaptedPE Mini-Conference Sat. May 3rd.

It will be free and virtual.

Register using this link or scan the QR code.https://t.co/mElQUjoGxD

A full line-up of sessions and presenters is coming soon. pic.twitter.com/FTlr5RiljF

— MAPEC (@MAPEC_Members) March 17, 2025

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!

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!

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!

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.

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.

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