Dear Parents:
I would like to remind you about the
importance of your child's physical activity education. The percentage of
overweight youths has more than tripled in the past 25 years partially due to
increased interest in sedentary activities such as television, computers, and
video games. A reduction in physical activity as well as an increase in
caloric intake has contributed to an obesity epidemic.
It is well documented that Americans become increasingly less active as they
age. Just as children and youths can learn the habit of regular activity, they
can learn to be inactive if they are not taught skills and given opportunities
to be active during their childhood.
Physical activity education in school physical education programs is the
cornerstone of an active lifestyle of all students. School programs provide
the skills, knowledge, and attitudes that facilitate choosing physical
activity after school, at home, and in the community. As a highly-qualified
education teacher,
I pledge to:
Establish a positive, safe learning environment for all students
Teach a variety of physical activities that make physical education class fun
and enjoyable Create maximum opportunities for students of all abilities to be
successful. Promote student honesty, integrity, and good sportsmanship
Guide students into becoming skillful and confident movers
Facilitate the development and maintenance of physical fitness
Assist students in setting and achieving personal goals
Provide specific, constructive feedback to help students master motor skills
Afford opportunities for students to succeed in cooperative situations
Prepare and encourage students to practice skills and be active for a lifetime
This school year I would like to invite you to visit our physical education
class. You will see children participating in developmentally appropriate
activities that will help increase their physical competence, self-esteem,and
joy of being physically active no matter what their physical abilities may be.
By enhancing your children's physical education, I am certain that
we will be able to help your children enjoy a lifetime of physical activity
and good health.
I welcome your support!
I am looking forward to "Picture Your Possibilities!" together. Please see
me if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Lorenzo Deraco
Physical Education Teacher
(201)337-8185 or contact me at
DERACO@OAKLANDSCHOOLSNJ.ORG