Advocating for Physical Education and Extracurricular Opportunities for Students with Disabilities

Overview & Synopsis

Physical educators, including adapted physical educators, are often called upon to advocate for their students with disabilities, their physical education programs, or themselves to affect change in practice or a student's Individualized Education Program. These advocacy efforts are most effective when physical educators are knowledgeable about educational policies and legislative mandates, and how they can be applied to individual situations. This article provides key terms and reviews federal laws that impact physical education service delivery across the United States. Additionally, U.S. Department of Education policy letters and guidance documents from national organizations that support physical education and sport for students with disabilities are reviewed. Finally, the article presents common situations related to physical education along with resources stakeholders can use to address issues and advocate for physical education and extracurricular athletics for their students with disabilities.