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NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Ava Ploeckelman, 7th grader at Northeast Middle School, recently testified before the House Education Committee concerning the physical activity requirement for school systems imposed by the State of Tennessee last year.
She testified that the 90 minutes per week requirement is a good idea, but said the children are not really getting that much physical activity. Ava said most of her Physical Education classes consist of team sports, and her class is often separated into smaller groups.
“For example, soccer teams are picked, the rules of the game are discussed and then the rest of time is spent standing on the field waiting for someone to kick the ball to you,” Ava said. She is advocating for more fitness club style activities, much like those used at area health clubs.
“I agree with Ava’s thoughts on this issue and have drafted a request of the Department of Education, which will be heard in the Education Sub Committee on Tuesday, March 11,” said State Rep. Joe Pitts (D-Clarksville), who teamed up with Ava for the project.
HJR 543 will require the Department of Education study and report on ways that local education agencies (LEAs) are implementing the required 90 minutes of physical activity each week. The resolution also requires the Department of Education to develop a list of best practices for LEAs to implement after completion of the study and report.
See Ava’s complete testimony here.