Physical Education, BS

Central to Influencing Healthy Activity.

Students in Central’s Physical Education for Teacher Certification Program will become qualified physical educators for elementary and secondary schools in Connecticut. Students are provided with a variety of classroom learning experiences as well as experiential learning opportunities with partner school districts.

Candidates learn up-to-date teaching techniques and apply them in authentic school environments. Emphasis is placed on integration of cross-curricular teaching, technology, and teaching strategies to improve physical literacy.

Program Features

Students have the option of cross endorsement in Health Education
Courses taught by highly qualified and skilled faculty with PK-12 teaching experience
Hands-on learning through field experiences in courses throughout the program
Dynamic faculty who are directly involved and serve with state, regional and national organizations
Community engagement and service-learning opportunities
Student involvement in professional organizations and research
Experience working with students with disabilities in physical education and movement settings
Individualized attention from course instructors through small class sizes

2019 Shape America Eastern District Awards

Faculty Recognition:

Linda Woods Huber Acknowledgement Award - John Battista
Honor Award: Ellen Benham
President’s Award: Jan Bishop
Tilia Fantasia Award: Carol Ciotto

Student Recognitions

Robert Pate Scholarship Award: Joseph Maffiolini

2019 SHAPE America National Awards

Faculty Recognition:

Helen Heitmann Young Scholar Award: Tan Leng Goh
North American Society of Health, Physical Education, Recreation, Sport and Dance Professional Fellow Nominee - Jan Bishop
Joy of Effort Award – Carol Ciotto

Student Recognition:

SHAPE America Major of the Year: Alexus Mazza

The physical education teacher preparation program is nationally accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

I chose the undergrad PE program at Central because I felt like I was in control of my education. I really appreciate how the professors see me as a whole student and mold me to be the best version of myself. I love coming to class every day and knowing that I’m learning alongside of people who will be life-long colleagues and friends.

Belle Magna ’24

Did You Know?

The physical education teacher preparation program reflects the School of Education conceptual framework as well as the SHAPE America National Standards for Initial Physical Education Teacher Education.

Learning Outcomes

By the time of graduation, physical education candidates with demonstrate:

An understanding of pedagogical content and scientific foundational knowledge for the delivery of an effective preK-12 physical education program.
Skillful performance in physical education content areas and be able to assess, develop and implement health-enhancing fitness habits.
The ability to apply content and foundational knowledge to plan and implement developmentally appropriate lessons and units of instruction that meet the needs of diverse learners and are aligned with university, state and national standards.
The ability to select and implement appropriate, equitable and inclusive assessments to monitor student progress and guide decision making related to instruction and learning.
Behaviors that are professional, ethical and culturally responsive, seek opportunities for continued professional development, and demonstrate knowledge of promotion/advocacy strategies for physical education.

Reference: SHAPE America Physical Education Teacher Education Standards

PE Teacher Preparation

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