Top marks go to ASCD's December/January issue of Educational Leadership, which is entirely devoted to health and learning. Excellent articles outline how health factors such as sleep, stress, bullying, self-harm, nutrition, and physical activity impact learning. In their article entitled "Why We Should Not Cut P.E." Trost and van der Mars lay out a very strong, research-based case for their discussion. From review of several international studies the authors report that "physically active, fit youth are more likely to have better grades and test scores than their inactive counterparts" (p62). Such evidence is driving decision-makers to increase opportunities for students to be active during the school day. For example, Danville School requires that students achieve 3 credits of physical education in order to graduate; twice the number of credits required by the Vermont State Board of Education. Considering the link between physical activity and learning, it is not surprising that Danville students met AYP for all required areas in both 2008 and 2009.
This entire journal provides thought-provoking material for a coordinated school health team to improve the learning environment. ASCD's Web site offers bonus items, including video and audio commentary, not available in the print publication. Click here for access to all of these resources.
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