UPPER CANADA DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD
CPHS Special Education Gym Class Builds Confidence and Leadership

A new Special Education Physical Education class at Carleton Place High School (CPHS) is serving students with special needs by helping them step out of their comfort zones and develop leadership skills.

The class is different from a standard physical education class. It combines students from the school's special education program, which supports students with a variety of physical and developmental abilities, and students from the Power Up Program, which supports students requiring intensive academic support and alternative programming.

The teachers leading the class, Andrea Edmonds-Read and Melanie Phillips, have adapted activities to suit each student's abilities. Each class begins with learning new skills, whether through stretching or focusing on gross motor skills, while others focus on game development and teamwork. Educational Assistants (EAs) also participate fully in the class, helping reinforce an inclusive and supportive environment for the small group of learners.

"In traditional gym class settings, participation can become overly competitive, which may not align with the needs of all students," said Edmonds-Read. "Smaller group settings allow for a more individualized focus on skill development."

"Some students have physical needs, others have developmental disabilities," said Phillips. "Having a gym class where everyone is included and can work at their own level ensures all students can participate."

Both teachers say their students are engaged and participating to the best of their abilities in an environment that allows them to succeed and build skills confidently in a safe, supportive space.

"They are finding a space where they can be leaders," said Phillips. "They're able to gain independence and participate without direct support."

"To watch them step out of their comfort zones, they celebrate each other's successes," said Edmonds-Read. "They'll stop and high five each other, and it really helps their self-confidence and the confidence of others. It's very humbling to watch them, because for maybe the first time in their schooling, they feel included - seen and heard."

"I think it's just a great opportunity to bridge that connection between high school and intermediate students, as well as provide independence for our students," said Phillips.

"It's inspiring to see the impact this program is having on students," said CPHS Principal Don Hickey. "They are engaged, supported, and gaining confidence in ways that extend well beyond the gym."