Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of the adapted physical educator?
- Direct service provider – evaluate, plan, and implement instruction for students with special needs
- Consultant – assist others, typically general physical educators and EC classroom teachers, in providing APE programs
Can a general physical education teacher teach adapted physical education?
- Yes. Adapted physical education may be provided by general physical educators and special education instructional or related service personnel who have the necessary competencies. In order to increase the frequency of inclusion, GPE teachers are encouraged to provide APE services to students with special needs.
Is it acceptable to place a student in general PE and occasionally have the student go to APE to work on particular skills?
- Yes.
Should every school district have an adapted physical educator?
- If the student qualifies for APE, service must be provided by qualified school personnel as directed by the state. Qualified school personnel include general physical educators, adapted physical educators, or E.C. teachers.
Who should evaluate students for APE?
- APE teacher
- If an APE teacher is not available, evaluations can be completed by highly qualified general PE teachers or special education teachers in collaboration with related service professionals.
How often should a student receive APE?
- Students with disabilities should receive the same number of minutes of physical education per week as their nondisabled peers.
Can occupational or physical therapy sessions substitute for APE?
- No.
Who is responsible for writing modifications for physical education?
- Appropriate modifications can be developed through partnerships between the GPE teacher and APE teacher, with recommendations from other members of the IEP committee.
Does a student in general PE come with an IEP?
- Yes. If a student is receiving APE services, they must have APE addressed in their IEPs.
Who writes the IEP objectives, and who is responsible for implementation?
- Collaboration between the EC, APE, and GPE teachers
What is the difference between adapted physical education and adaptive physical education?
- Service delivery is adapted. Behaviors are adaptive.