Integrated physical education at Vernon Hills High School is a gym class that has students work with other students who have physical, mental, or social disabilities.  In the gym class currently lead by Denise Caton, students participate in the same activities as other classes, including basketball, soccer, and even snow shoeing.

The VHHS website states, “The goal of the Physical Welfare Department at Vernon Hills High School is to prepare students for life after secondary education by providing them with essential skills that will help them develop physically, emotionally, and socially.”  Integrated P.E is no exception to this goal.  Although special needs students learn the skills slower and tend to perform certain physical activities differently, the class helps these students stay active and healthy while giving them an opportunity to converse with others.  According to District 128’s course standards and targets, students are expected to “develop team-building skills by working with others through physical activity.”  Students fulfill this standard by working one-on-one with each special needs student during each unit.  This allows them to socialize with a variety of people and, along with advocating a healthy lifestyle through physical activity, further strengthens their social skills.

The Scratching Post interviewed student Cali Joyce (12) who has been in the class for two years and was asked about why she chose the class and what she loves about it.

TSP: What made you decide to take Integrated P.E?

Joyce: I decided to join the class because I love working with special needs kids and Integrated is the perfect time to be able to get to know the students as people and build relationships.

TSP: What’s your favorite thing about Integrated P.E?

Joyce: My favorite thing would definitely be watching the buddies start to enjoy the class and have fun playing different sports.

TSP: Since you’re a senior this year, what are you going to miss about the class?

Joyce: Next year I’m going to miss everything! Integrated is perfect in my schedule because not only is it a break from academics but it’s the highlight of my day.

Integrated P.E isn’t just about the physical aspect.  For many of the students involved, including Joyce, Integrated P.E is the best period of the day.  Not only is the experience rewarding, but the class is also a lot of fun.  The class also provides students with an environment to train for the Special Olympics.  According to the Special Olympics homepage, “The mission of Special Olympics is to provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.”  2014 was the first year district 128 was able to create a team to compete in the games.  The team was successful, and earned 3rd in state overall.  This program is something to be truly proud of.

Unfortunately, Integrated P.E has had the reputation of being a “slack off” gym class because most of the physical activity done is more laid back due to the physical limitations of some of the students.  However, the class is difficult in other aspects. For example, patience and self-control are two crucial elements needed to be a leader in the class. Otherwise, it can become very frustrating.  Although students go through a trivial screening, Integrated P.E is open to anyone who has an interest in working with special needs kids.  Joyce sums up the Integrated experience quite nicely:  “The moment I enter the class, the whole attitude of the day improves and everyone is happy and excited.”  There is never a dull moment in Integrated physical education.