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#AdaptedPE Newsletter 10 (Week of 10/14/2024)

Matt Barker (Digit the APE)
Matt Barker (Digit the APE)
10 Min Read

Welcome to the Adapted PE Newsletter! This weekly resource is designed to inspire and equip you with innovative teaching strategies, practical tools, and the latest trends in adapted physical education. By subscribing, you’ll gain access to curated content that makes your work easier, from engaging activities to equipment recommendations and professional development opportunities. Whether you’re looking for new ideas or ways to enhance your students’ experiences, this newsletter will keep you informed, motivated, and ready to make a positive impact.

Contents

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Teacher Spotlight: Leah Olson

Leah Olson, a dedicated Developmental Adapted Physical Education Teacher and Minnesota State alum, is making a big impact in Jordan, MN. Recently, Leah showcased her creativity by implementing an exciting adapted carnival unit, utilizing assistive technology to engage her students in meaningful and fun activities. Her commitment to innovation and inclusion is inspiring. Keep up the amazing work, Leah!

Adapted PE News

Stay informed with the latest news, professional development opportunities, and research advancements in the world of Adapted Physical Education.

My Colorado to California Tour

This week, I had the opportunity to start my trip in Colorado for the SHAPE Colorado Conference, where I delivered three sessions to groups of dedicated teachers. It was a privilege to attend the event, and see Bryan Wickoren receive the Honor Award for his outstanding work in the state, as well as congratulate Katie Spirak on being named Colorado’s Adapted PE Teacher of the Year. It was an inspiring experience to be part of these important recognitions.

Photo Credits @Musser_APE

After Colorado, I headed to California State University, Long Beach, where I had the chance to see Dr. Melissa Bittner, Dr. Amanda Youngs, and Dr. Barry Lavay’s fantastic programs in action. Their students receive world-class instruction from these expert professors and gain hands-on experience teaching amazing kids. I had the privilege of leading a pickleball session with the students, and I also recorded a podcast with Dr. Lavay and Project CAPE students Kendyl Nowels and Greg Bommarito. I guest lectured for both undergraduate and graduate classes, and overall, had an incredible time. The future of APE is clearly in safe hands in California!

Finally, I wrapped up my trip in San Diego, where I led a workshop for the San Diego Unified School District Adapted PE teachers. I had the chance to meet with Chris Ahrens, host of the Talking Adapted PE podcast, and his team to discuss Just Adapt It and assistive technology. San Diego is one of the coolest cities I’ve ever been to, and the people in Southern California (& Colorado) are some of the friendliest around!

I feel truly blessed to have had this incredible opportunity to travel and connect with so many talented individuals. A heartfelt thank you to Bryan Wickoren, Dr. Melissa Bittner, and Chris Ahrens for making this trip possible, as well as to all the passionate and dedicated APE teachers and future professionals I had the pleasure of meeting along the way (too many to name!). I’m leaving this experience feeling inspired and energized, ready to bring that same passion back to my work. It was an unforgettable journey, and I’m grateful for every moment!

Equipment Showcase: Suction Ball Catching Disk

This week’s featured equipment is a fun and engaging suction cup ball catching game. The game includes sticky suction balls that easily adhere to the target, making it perfect for practicing hand-eye coordination and motor skills. It’s versatile and can be used in a variety of activities, from throwing and catching to targeting exercises. This game is simple to set up and can be enjoyed individually or in groups, making it a great addition to your PE equipment collection!

Talkling Adapted PE Podcast: Danielle Musser

Danielle Musser joins Chris to discuss what the APE world in the state of Colorado looks like and to discuss what it is like navigating the intricacies of being an expecting parent, a new parent, and a teacher.

Professional Development

October NCPEID APE Collaborative

Mark your calendars for the NCPEID APE Collaborative on Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024 at 1pm PST, 3pm CT, and 4pm EST! Join Josh Porter, APE Teacher from Milton High School, GA, and Kristin Buenafe, APE Teacher from Santa Ana USD, as they discuss Adapted Fitness. This is a great opportunity to learn from experienced professionals in the field. You can join the session via Zoom using the link provided in the image. Don’t miss it!

Zoom Link to Join

Time: 1pm PST | 3pm CT | 4pm EST
Topic: Adapted Fitness with Josh Porter and Kristin Buenafe

View last months collaborative below featuring Dr. Suzanne Dillon and myself discussing Advocacy in APE.

MAPEC Community Chat (Virtual) with Jeff Watkins

We’re excited to share a great opportunity hosted by the Maryland Adapted PE Consortium (MAPEC)! On October 24th at 7 PM, join Jeff Watkins, the 2022 SHAPE Eastern District Teacher of the Year, for a virtual session titled “Top 10 Questions About Adapted PE.” This event will give you the chance to hear expert insights and get answers to your most pressing Adapted PE questions.

Upcoming Conferences

Conference NameDateLocationLink
Adapted PE Pre-Conference WorkshopOctober 17, 2024 (9am-4pm)Pacific Lutheran University, Tacoma, WALink
North Texas APE ConferenceNovember 7-8, 2024Richardson, TXLink
SHAPE PA State ConferenceNovember 7-8, 2024Manheim, PALink
Virginia AHPERD 87th Annual ConventionNovember 8-10, 2024Virginia Beach, VALink

You can register by scanning the QR code on the flyer. If you’re not a MAPEC member yet, it’s free to join—sign up here. Don’t miss out on this informative event!

APENS Study Group for CAPE Certification:

The study group uses gamification for review, rotating standards each month. Attendees will receive a Quizzizz for future study. Fall semester dates are October 14, November 11, and December 9, with sessions held at 5:30 pm PST / 8:30 pm EST. The group is hosted by CSU Long Beach Project CAPE and UW-LaCrosse Scholars.

Join via Zoom: https://csulb.zoom.us/j/85372672032.

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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!

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