Celebrating Adapted Physical Education: Colorado’s APE Week and the 2026 Colorado Adapted P.E. Conference

Every year, educators and advocates across the country take time to celebrate the impact of Adapted Physical Education (APE) professionals who work tirelessly to ensure that students of all abilities have access to meaningful movement and physical activity. One of the leaders helping spotlight this work is Danielle Musser of Colorado, who has been instrumental in organizing APE Week through the Colorado APE community.

APE Week, celebrated from March 8–14, highlights the dedication of Adapted Physical Education Specialists who support students with disabilities in developing motor skills, confidence, independence, and a lifelong connection to physical activity. These professionals design inclusive environments where every student can participate, succeed, and experience the joy of movement.

Danielle and the Colorado APE team created this week not only to recognize teachers, but also to raise awareness about the critical role adapted physical education plays in inclusive education. From adaptive sports to individualized motor development programs, APE professionals bridge the gap between ability and opportunity.

For the adapted physical education community, events like this serve as a reminder that inclusive movement matters. Physical education should never be one-size-fits-all. Instead, it should meet students where they are and help them grow from there.

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Looking Ahead: The 2026 Colorado Adapted P.E. Conference

The celebration of APE doesn’t stop with APE Week. Danielle Musser and the Colorado APE team are also organizing the 2026 Colorado Adapted Physical Education Conference, taking place May 3–5, 2026 at the beautiful Mt. Princeton Hot Springs in Nathrop, Colorado.

This conference brings together educators, therapists, researchers, and advocates who share a common mission: improving physical education opportunities for students with disabilities.

One of the highlights of this year’s conference is that it will be headlined by adapted physical education leader Justin Lund, a respected voice in the field and someone many in the APE community know for his passion, innovation, and dedication to inclusive movement.

Participants can expect:

• Hands-on adapted physical activity sessions
• Collaborative learning with APE professionals
• Outdoor and inclusive recreation experiences
• Networking opportunities with leaders in the field
• Practical strategies educators can bring back to their programs

The all-inclusive conference pricing of $670 includes four meals and two nights of lodging, making it an immersive experience where professionals can learn, collaborate, and recharge.

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Why Events Like This Matter for Adapted Physical Education

Adapted Physical Education continues to grow as educators recognize the importance of equitable access to movement, sport, and health education for students with disabilities.

Events like APE Week and the Colorado Adapted P.E. Conference do more than celebrate the profession—they help:

• Elevate the visibility of APE programs
• Share innovative teaching strategies
• Strengthen professional networks
• Advocate for inclusive physical education nationwide

Leaders like Danielle Musser and presenters like Justin Lund are helping push the field forward, ensuring that adapted physical education remains a vital part of inclusive education.

For anyone passionate about inclusion, movement, and empowering students of all abilities, the Colorado APE community is setting a powerful example of what collaboration and advocacy can accomplish.