NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Dozens of school systems across the state have filed for an exemption from mandated rules for physical education classes for Tennessee's youngest students.
The Tom Cronan Physical Education Act requires elementary school students in all Tennessee schools to attend two physical education classes per week.
However, some school systems don't believe they can start the programs, which were supposed to begin in August. School systems submitted the waivers because they believe the program will inhibit their ability to operate due to COVID-19.
Those for it say health is more important than ever right now.
"Tennessee leads the nation in childhood obesity," said Fran Hoogestraat, a track and field coach at Franklin Road Academy.
Hoogestraat is also an advocate for Tennessee Association of Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (TAHPERD).
She said she thinks school systems can manage a half-hour of physical education twice per week.
"It was uneven across the state," said Hoogestraat. "All of the private schools have five days and some schools have no days and some had one day. So, the national standards for physical education were written so it could be met in two days, shorter sessions."
Franklin Road Academy has physical education five days a week. Hoogestraat said she believes the foundation of good health can be taught at schools across Tennessee to make the state a leader in health.
The State Board of Education is taking up the issue Friday morning at a meeting where members will vote on waivers for school systems across Tennessee.
Some of the districts asking for the physical education waiver are Cheatham, Dickson and Sumner Counties.
