Let's Get Into Shape

Funded Aug 27, 2022

My project, "Let's Get into Shape" was met by my first semester middle school girls' Physical Education classes with joy because we didn't have dodge balls that weren't falling apart, we didn't have decent basketballs and we didn't have any jump ropes. With your help, having all of these new items helped me to create new games, teach skills such as throwing and catching, dribbling a basketball and learning to shoot a basketball.

What struck me by surprise was how much my classes in both semesters really went wild over the jump ropes! I heard comments like, "I haven't done this in so long it takes me back to elementary school!" And, "I really am having a fun time while re-learning to jump rope." It was enlightening to watch my students learn for the first time how to jump rope as well watch those who have jumped rope before renewing their love for it.

The equipment has allowed me to introduce an improved circuit training course indoors. I have many stations where students have a specific task to do. The new equipment has expanded my circuit training course thus making it a little more challenging.

I realize that a lot of people in the education community don't like dodgeball due to what is considered negative play, but my middle school girls LOVE dodgeball! What this game helps me do is to teach girls to throw in Stage 4, which is where humans are supposed to develop to in throwing (if you throw right-handed, you step with your left foot and reverse for left-handed throwers). I utilize several types of dodgeball games to teach throwing and catching as well as teaching strategy.

I know this thank you is way overdue but as an elective teacher, my entire class load turns over at the semester. This provided the opportunity for a new group of students to use the new equipment. This group especially liked the pastel colors of the dodge balls for some reason. They ask to play a dodge ball game more than any other of the games that are played in class.

Thank you so, so much for providing better equipment for my Physical Education classes!”

With gratitude,

Ms. Boles