Health courses teach students the elements of good health and the factors that affect their well-being. Students will learn how to make appropriate health decisions and how commonly accepted misinformation influences those decisions. Evaluation of health information as relevant and reliable is a critical concept of health education. The department will emphasize prevention of physical and mental problems, stressing that certain art forms present health risks.

Physical Education

At Ellington, students feel the magic and transcendence of movement, dance, and athletics, and increase their understanding of academic subjects. Students will demonstrate their knowledge of the elements for good health, nutrition and other factors that affect their well being. With knowledge gained about health issues and body conditioning, students will make appropriate decisions relative to their mental and physical health. Students will utilize the knowledge and skills acquired to evaluate their body conditions and personal health. Then, they will make appropriate decisions abut their physical, social emotional and cognitive development over their life span. Duke Ellington will implement and provide a model for physical fitness and health education that affords students the opportunity not only to excel, but also to exceed the physical education requirements in the District of Columbia Public Schools.

Departmental Goals

1. Provide a variety of movement, physical activities, and health education experiences that support and sustain every student’s art and academic curriculum.
2. Combine dance, aerobics, gymnastics, and sports activities in a multi-based program.
3. Provide opportunities for students to experience the Joseph Pilates body-conditioning system. Provide opportunities for students to increase their flexibility and stamina and refine their coordination and critical thinking skills.
4. Provide the opportunity for students to prepare and use a fitness and assessment plan.
5. Provide learning experiences that relate to health concepts, safety practices, human sexuality, environmental and consumer concerns, and personal health.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL FITNESS SEQUENCE OF COURSES