If you work in Adapted Physical Education, you’ve probably heard the term CAPE Certification—but maybe you’re still wondering what it actually is, whether it’s worth it, or how to even begin.
That’s exactly why I created this CAPE Certification Mini-Series.
This series is designed to walk you through the Certified Adapted Physical Educator (CAPE) credential step-by-step, from understanding what it is to preparing for the exam and maintaining your certification long-term. Whether you’re a classroom teacher, itinerant APE specialist, higher education faculty member, or a related service professional supporting APE, this series is for you.
🎥 Video 1: What Is CAPE Certification (and Why It Matters)
In Part 1, we start with the foundation.
In this video, I break down:
- What CAPE Certification is and who it’s designed for
- Why earning your CAPE matters for credibility, leadership, and career growth
- Eligibility pathways for practitioners and higher education faculty
- How CAPE connects you to a national professional community of Adapted PE leaders
CAPE certification is more than just letters after your name. It’s a professional statement that says:
“I meet national standards in Adapted Physical Education.”
For many educators, CAPE strengthens resumes, opens doors to leadership roles, supports advocacy efforts, and provides confidence when working with administrators, IEP teams, and districts.
📘 Learn more and explore APE teaching resources:
👉 https://easyadaptedpe.com
📚 Shop Adapted PE resources:
👉 https://easyadaptedpe.com/shop-resources
🎥 Video 2: The CAPE Exam, Study Plan, and Recertification
In Part 2, we get practical and detailed.
This video answers the most common questions I hear from educators who are interested in CAPE—but nervous about the process.
In this video, you’ll learn:
- What to expect on the CAPE (APENS) exam
- How the 30-Day Study Sprint Plan helps you stay organized and confident
- The best study materials, including the official APE textbook and web-based practice guide
- An overview of the 15 APENS standards and what they actually cover
- Recertification options, including portfolio guidance and continuing education
I also share personal strategies for balancing full-time teaching with exam prep—because I know how demanding APE schedules can be. The goal is not to overwhelm you, but to help you move forward with a clear plan.
🎯 Resources mentioned in Video 2:
👉 https://easyadaptedpe.com/shop-resources
👉 https://www.ncpeid.org/apens-certific…
Why CAPE Is Worth the Effort
CAPE certification helps you:
- Stand out as a leader in Adapted Physical Education
- Align your practice with nationally recognized standards
- Strengthen your voice as an advocate for inclusion
- Build long-term professional confidence and credibility
If you’ve been waiting for the “right time” to pursue CAPE, my hope is that this series helps you realize: you are capable, and you don’t have to do it alone.
What’s Next?
If you haven’t yet, be sure to watch both videos in the series—and stay tuned for future resources to support your CAPE journey.
If this series is helpful, please like, subscribe, and share it with your APE team. The more certified professionals we have in the field, the stronger our collective impact becomes.
Let’s keep growing the Adapted PE community—together.
— Sarah
