All PS 8 students have physical education with Bill Maxcy once a week in the school’s indoor gym space. The space, which is not designated as a “gymnasium” because of its lower-than-regulation ceilings, was completed in 2011 and contains three half basketball courts with 9’ to 9’6” rims. Mr. Maxcy teaches skills that build strength, flexibility and teamwork, and he encourages all students to participate actively, regardless of their athletic ability.
As part of physical education, students learn stretching and strength training exercises. Kindergarten, first and second graders play cooperative games and practice the skills common to many sports. Third, fourth and fifth graders form teams within classes, allowing students to practice the skills they learn as part of competitive games.
Students sample different sports, which may vary from year to year. In past years, older students have played kickball and basketball; while younger students have ridden scooters on obstacle courses, bowled, and played badminton with balloons. Mr. Maxcy has also used the outdoor space at PS 8 to introduce sports such as hockey and soccer.
Mr. Maxcy coordinates with the physical therapist at PS 8 on stretching and strength-building activities; that therapist also “pushes in” to physical education classes to work with individual students.
