SHAPE America

SHAPE America – Society of Health and Physical Educators is a professional organization in the United States dedicated to ensuring that all children have the opportunity to lead healthy, physically active lives. Founded in 1885, it is the nation’s largest membership organization of health and physical education professionals. SHAPE America provides its members with resources, professional development opportunities, and advocacy to support health and physical education at the national, state, and local levels.

History

SHAPE America was originally established as the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD) before it rebranded to its current name in 2013. This change reflected a strategic shift to more directly focus on health and physical education while still supporting the broader fields of physical activity and recreation. The organization's history is marked by its commitment to improving physical education programs and increasing public awareness about the importance of physical activity for health.

Mission and Vision

The mission of SHAPE America is to advance professional practice and promote research related to health and physical education, physical activity, dance, and sport. Its vision is to create a nation where all children are prepared to lead healthy, physically active lives.

Programs and Initiatives

SHAPE America develops standards for physical education and provides a variety of resources and professional development opportunities for educators. It is known for its National Standards & Grade-Level Outcomes for K-12 Physical Education, which serve as a framework for physical education programs across the United States. Additionally, SHAPE America organizes national conferences, workshops, and webinars to support educators and professionals in the field.

One of its key initiatives is the annual celebration of National Physical Education and Sport Week, which aims to raise awareness about the importance of physical education in schools. SHAPE America also advocates for policies that support physical education and physical activity programs at the federal, state, and local levels.

Membership

SHAPE America offers membership to teachers, researchers, administrators, and students in the fields of health and physical education. Members benefit from access to the latest research, professional development resources, and opportunities to connect with peers in the field.

Publications

SHAPE America publishes several academic journals and practical resources to support professionals in health and physical education. Key publications include:

• Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance (JOPERD)
• Research Quarterly for Exercise and Sport (RQES)
• Strategies: A Journal for Physical and Sport Educators

These publications provide valuable insights into current research, trends, and best practices in health and physical education.

Advocacy

SHAPE America actively advocates for policies that promote health and physical education at the national, state, and local levels. It works to ensure that physical education is recognized as a critical component of a student's education and that adequate funding and resources are allocated to physical education and physical activity programs.

Conclusion

SHAPE America plays a crucial role in promoting health and physical education across the United States. Through its standards, resources, advocacy, and professional development opportunities, it supports educators and professionals in their efforts to ensure that all children have the opportunity to engage in physical activity and lead healthy lives.