Physical Education

Governor’s Council position:

Quality physical education is a key component in healthy lifestyles for children.

The Governor’s Council envisions a population with the knowledge, skills, competence and confidence to pursue physical activity in daily life.  We must ensure daily, quality physical education in all school grades.

In 2007, four different bills were introduced that would strengthen physical education requirements in Michigan.  Below, a summary of each bill is listed, with a link to the complete language.

SB 282 – Primary sponsor: Senator Samuel Thomas

• Introduced 2/27/07
• This bill would require all K-5 schools to provide at least 30 minutes per day, two days per week of physical education.
• Click here for complete language and information http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(2pbzan55rywas045bm4yknqr))/mileg.aspx?page=getObject&objectName=2007-SB-0282

 

SB 508 – Primary sponsor: Senator Deborah Cherry

• Introduced 5/17/07
• This bill would increase the amount of time students have for physical education and health education class per week, with the increase taking place incrementally over a period of eight years.
• Click here for complete language and information http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(2pbzan55rywas045bm4yknqr))/mileg.aspx?page=getObject&objectName=2007-SB-0508

HB 4790 – Primary sponsor:  Representative Lee Gonzales

• Introduced 5/17/07
• This bill would increase the amount of time students have for physical education and health education class per week, with the increase taking place incrementally over a period of eight years.
• Click here for complete language and information http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(2pbzan55rywas045bm4yknqr))/mileg.aspx?page=getObject&objectName=2007-HB-4790

HB 4814 – Primary sponsor: Representative Brenda Clack

• Introduced 5/23/07
• This bill would require that physical education classes focus on developing strength, cardiovascular fitness and flexibility rather than recreational activities.
• Click here for complete language and information http://www.legislature.mi.gov/(S(yhw3dmanhjxx2kbqyftsfey2))/mileg.aspx?page=getobject&objectname=2007-HB-4814&queryid=18232444

We encourage all Michigan citizens to make their voices heard.  If you would like to contact your legislator about advocating for quality physical education in our schools, you may find their contact information at the links below.

Click here to find your representative

Click here to find your senator

Press release on this topic click here

Recent Lansing State Journal Opinion piece click here

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