GAINESVILLE - The Gainesville City School System (gcss) has implemented its first elementary physical education program, integrating high school sports into elementary physical education curriculum.
Billy Kirk, Director of Athletics and Student Activities, has discussed the program's initiatives with all elementary principals and physical education teachers and will provide resources and support to schools in this new venture.
Students will have the opportunity to learn various sports that typically would be unfamiliar to them. Sport introductions are already scheduled during the upcoming months to allow students to learn about winter and spring sports.
"I am excited for our kids and our sports programs to immerse our students in a different experience than the usual routines," Kirk said.
Last week elementary schools introduced golf instruction to students utilizing the First Tee curriculum and equipment provided for each of the schools. All elementary physical education teachers participated in the First Tee training this past summer and have been provided with a course introduction and a planning guide for the program. Gainesville High School golf coaches Bryson Worley and Clay McDonald visited schools throughout the week to assist physical education teachers and to work with students on understanding game rules and techniques.
The goal of the First Tee Program is to immerse students into an unfamiliar area of golf, while also teaching the students about fine/gross motor skills, lifetime sporting opportunities, and living a healthy lifestyle through exercise and nutrition.
For additional information, please contact Billy Kirk, Director of Athletics and Student Activities, at [email protected] or 770-536-4441.
