Physical Education and Health Class
Dear Parents/Guardians:
🎉 Clara Barton Elementary School Field (Fun) Day! 🎉🎪
📅 Date: Wednesday, May 21, 2025
⏰ Time: 9:20 AM – 10:50 AM
🏫 Grades: Kindergarten – 2nd Grade
📍 Location: Field behind the teacher parking lot on E. Burlington Street
🎭 Theme: Carnival!💫 Let the fun begin!
Join us for a morning of games, laughter, and excitement at this year’s Carnival-themed Field Day!
☔ Rain Date: Thursday, May 22, 2025 (if heavy rain is forecasted)
🩺 Medical Concerns?
Please inform both the school nurse and Ms. Gray of any medical concerns your child may have prior to Field Day.
🙋 Want to Volunteer?
Help make the day extra special! Sign up to run a station using the link below (also posted on Mrs. Gray's website):
🔗 Sign Up to Volunteer
https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0B49A5AF2EA0FA7-field
🎒 What to Bring & Wear:
✅ Sneakers – required to participate
✅ Sunscreen – apply before school
✅ Water Bottle – label with your child’s name
✅ Change of Clothes – students may get wet at the water station
✅ Fun Run T-Shirt – wear it proudly!
Enthusiastically,
Kelly Gray
Health and Physical Education Teacher
Mrs. Heather Wawrzyniak
Principal
April News
Field Day 2025 is Carnival theme!!!!!
Sign-up to volunteer!
I wanted to take a moment to update you on the exciting activities happening in our Physical Education (PE) class. Recently, our students have been learning about striking—a fundamental skill in many sports, including baseball, tennis, and even some team games.
What Is Striking?
Striking involves using an object (like a bat, racket, or even a foot) to hit another object (such as a ball, balloon, or a puck). Striking helps children develop important motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and an understanding of teamwork and sportsmanship. In PE class, students are practicing striking in a fun and safe environment, using lightweight, soft equipment.
I hope you're doing well! We are excited to share that in our recent Physical Education (PE) classes, second-grade students have been exploring the basics of baseball and working together in a fun, lead-up baseball game.
The second-grade students participated in a baseball lead-up game designed to build teamwork, coordination, and basic skills needed for the sport.
The students had a fantastic time as they learned the fundamental movements of baseball, such as throwing, catching, hitting, and running bases, in a fun and supportive environment. The game emphasized teamwork and sportsmanship, encouraging all students to engage with each other in a positive and cooperative way.
What is a Lead-Up Baseball Game?
A lead-up game is a simplified version of baseball, designed to help students practice key skills such as hitting, fielding, and base running while also learning the flow of the game.
Skills Being Practiced:
Batting: Learning how to swing a bat and make contact with the ball.
Fielding: Practicing catching, throwing, and positioning
Base Running: Developing awareness of the bases and how to run them in the right order.
Teamwork: Understanding the importance of cooperation and communication on the field.
Why Is This Important?
This activity helps students improve coordination, balance, and motor skills. It also fosters teamwork and communication, which are key components of sports and physical activities. Most importantly, it’s an opportunity for the kids to have fun and enjoy physical activity while learning valuable skills that can be applied to many different sports.
I encourage you to ask your child about what they’ve learned during PE class and perhaps even practice some of the skills at home!
March News
February News
I wanted to share an update on the exciting progress our students in Kindergarten through Grade 2 have been making in their Physical Education classes, specifically in their jump rope skills.
Throughout the past few weeks, the students have been learning and practicing various jump rope techniques. In Kindergarten, the focus has been on building fundamental skills, such as jumping in rhythm and learning how to turn the rope properly. They’ve been developing their coordination and confidence, and it’s been wonderful to see them enjoy this activity.
In Grades 1 and 2, we’ve been expanding on these skills by introducing more advanced jump rope techniques like single jumps, double unders, and practicing skipping with a partner. The students have been working hard to improve their timing, balance, and endurance. Many of them have shown incredible progress, and it’s been rewarding to see their skills grow with each lesson.
Jump rope activities not only help with physical fitness but also enhance coordination, focus, and teamwork. It’s been a joy to watch the students have fun while developing these important skills.
Thank you for your continued support! If you have any questions or would like more information about what your child is learning, feel free to reach out.
January News
This month, I'm excited to dive into basketball skills as part of our movement and sports curriculum for grades K-2. Our young athletes are making great progress, and I want to keep you informed about the skills they’ll be developing throughout the month.
Skills Focus for January:
-
Dribbling: Students will learn the basic dribbling technique using their finger pads to bounce the ball while maintaining control. We'll focus on dribbling at different heights and speeds, building coordination and ball-handling confidence.
-
Passing: We’ll introduce the chest pass, which helps with accuracy and teamwork. Students will practice passing to a partner, focusing on body positioning and proper hand placement.
-
Shooting: We’ll start with shooting at lower baskets or hoops as well as full-range shots. Students will learn the basic mechanics of a shot, focusing on proper hand placement and aiming for the target.
What to Expect in PE Class:
-
Fun Drills & Games: We’ll keep things exciting by using fun drills that promote skill development, such as dribbling relays and passing accuracy challenges. We will play lead up games in the gym to practice the skills learned.
-
Teamwork and Sportsmanship: Basketball is a team sport, so we will encourage students to work together and celebrate each other’s efforts.
I am excited to see how our young athletes grow this month! Thank you for your support in encouraging your child’s physical development both in and outside of PE class.
December News
This month, our students will focus on developing their football skills. They will practice essential techniques such as passing, catching, running routes, and field goal kicking through a variety of fun stations. To reinforce their learning, the students will also participate in lead-up games, which will allow them to apply these skills. This is designed to help each child improve their abilities while enjoying the sport and working as a team.
In our Physical Education (PE) class, we will be focusing on various fun and educational winter station games. These activities are designed to help students develop their physical skills while promoting teamwork and sportsmanship.
At each station, students are engaging in a variety of games that challenge their coordination, agility, balance, and endurance. Some of the activities include relay races, obstacle courses, and skill-building exercises. These games are not only enjoyable but also aim to reinforce important physical concepts such as teamwork, problem-solving, and perseverance.
By rotating through these stations, students get the opportunity to experience a wide range of physical challenges that keep them engaged and excited about staying active during the winter months. The goal is to provide a well-rounded, fun, and positive PE experience that encourages both fitness and learning.
November News
I am excited to share that we are currently working on a soccer unit in our Physical Education (PE) class! During this unit, students will have the opportunity to learn and practice essential soccer skills, including dribbling, passing, shooting, and defending. These skills will be developed through a variety of fun and engaging activities designed to build both individual abilities and teamwork.
To help students apply these skills in game situations, I will also be incorporating lead-up games into our lessons. These smaller, modified games will allow students to practice the techniques they've learned while playing in a more dynamic and interactive environment. The lead-up games are designed to help them understand the rules of soccer and improve their overall gameplay in a supportive and enjoyable setting.
I am looking forward to seeing the students grow in their soccer skills while having fun and working together as a team.
Sign up below for conferences
Fall Conferences 2024
October News
The students are learning all about personal space and pathways in P.E. class. I hope they show you some of the skills they learned in class. We started to practice how to jump rope and hula hoop.
In October the students will learn soccer skills and play a lead up game at the end of the unit. The students will learn skills to practice with an autumn theme. They are working very hard in physical education class this year. I am so happy to see them enjoying PE class. The students are working on doing a push-up during warm-ups. The students should always wear sneakers or bring them to participate in class.
PE Days Below
Gravier-Tuesday, Wednesday
PRE K- Friday
Kindergarten
H. Martino-Tuesday, Wednesday
J.Martino-Thursday, Friday
Oliver-Monday, Wednesday
Planas-Thursday, Friday
First Grade
Purves-Monday, Tuesday
Silva-Tuesday, Wednesday
Suggs-Thursday, Friday
Second Grade
Farina-Monday, Wednesday
Mitchell-Monday, Tuesday
Vandegrift- Thursday, Friday
September 2024 News
Please make sure you child wears sneakers and comfortable clothing on their Physical Education Days!!!
Health lessons for Kindergarten
Healthy Habits
Stranger Safety
Circulatory System
Fire Safety
Health lessons for first grade-
Muscular System
Digestive System
Stranger Safety
Bike Safety
Nutrition
Healthy Habits
Health lessons for second grade-
Nutrition
Conflicts
Friendships
Nervous system
Internet Safety
Mindfulness (Relaxation/calming jar)- please send in one empty bottle for a project ( student name on it)
Self image
My name is Kelly Gray, and I am excited to be your student's physical education and health teacher at Clara Barton Elementary School. My goal in physical education is for everyone to feel successful. This enables students to develop a positive attitude toward physical activity and to develop healthful habits, which will hopefully continue throughout their lives.
All students at Clara Barton Elementary School will have physical education twice a week. Students will be encouraged to have fun and enjoy physical education. They will also be encouraged to participate to the best of their ability in a wide variety of activities.
Please don't forget to wear sneakers for PE class. If you ever need to contact me please email me. [email protected].
I am excited to get moving!!!!!!!
***If your child has any physical disabilities, please let me know. Problems such as chronic asthma, allergies, heart problems, diabetes, etc. need to be documented and kept in my files in the PE office. Prior knowledge will help me to monitor your child closely and correct or alleviate any problems that arise. The students’ safety is important to me as they go through their daily PE routine.
Thank you, Kelly Gray
1) Be prepared to learn
Students should come to PE class prepared with a desire to learn something new. It might be the acquisition of a new skill or movement, or it might be the learning of a new idea or game principle. This is a simple expectation that sets the tone for the rest of the class. If at all possible, they should have the appropriate clothing and shoes for class so that they can perform at their best.
2) Have fun
Physical education should be a time for students to let loose, be active, and enjoy themselves. This does not mean that every minute of class needs to be filled with laughter and games, but it does mean that students should feel like they can relax and have fun while they are learning. When students are having fun, they are more likely to be engaged in the lesson and retain the information that they are learning. This expectation also goes hand-in-hand with the first one; if students are prepared for class and know what to expect, they are more likely to have fun.
3) Try your best
Physical education classes at school generally include a wide range of activities, skill building, and creative movement scenarios. Students arrive to class with varying levels of ability and expertise.
Fulfilling this expectation can be challenging because some students are more inclined to excel at physical activities than others. It's important to keep in mind that everyone has unique strengths and weaknesses, but also remember that everybody is capable of putting forth their best effort. Some students might need a little extra encouragement to try their best, and that is okay.
4) Be polite and respectful
Students need to be polite and respectful during a physical education class for several reasons. First, it's important to remember that everyone is there to learn and improve their skill and fitness levels. Second, being rude and disruptive can interfere with the learning process for everyone in the class. Third, it's simply more pleasant for everyone involved if everyone is behaving respectfully towards one another.
5) Help others and cooperate
A typical physical education class has many students with diverse backgrounds moving their bodies using various forms of equipment, sometimes in tight spaces. To ensure that everyone has a positive experience, students must be expected to help and cooperate. This might mean lending a hand when someone is having trouble with an activity, or it might mean being understanding if someone accidentally bumps into you. In addition to helping their classmates, students should also be willing to cooperate with the teacher's instructions and be willing to follow directions. This might involve working with a partner or group, following directions, or taking turns. If everyone cooperates, the class will run much smoother and everyone will be able to learn and have fun.
6) Attempt new things
Trying new things can be scary, but it is also exciting and fun. Students need to remember that they will not be good at everything that they try, but that's okay. The goal is to have fun and learn something new, not to be perfect. If students can keep an open mind and a positive attitude, they will be more likely to enjoy trying new things.
7) Demonstrate great sportsmanship
It's easy to get caught up in the heat of the game or activity and forget about good sportsmanship. But showing good sportsmanship is an important part of a physical education class for every student. Good sportsmanship includes being a good sport whether you win or lose, being a good role model for other students, and treating your classmates and the PE teacher with respect.
8) Pay attention to instruction
Paying attention in class can be difficult for some students. However, there are good reasons why students should make an effort to pay attention in physical education classes. Paying attention can help prevent injuries.
9) Move safely and in control
In classes with many students, it's especially important to be careful when running and jumping to avoid injury. There are several ways that students can learn to move safely and in control. First, they need to be aware of their bodies and how they move through space. Second, they need to be aware of the other people around them and how their movements can affect others. Finally, they need to be able to listen to and follow instructions from their teacher. By following these tips, students will be able to move safely and in control in class.
10) Leave with a smile
It is important that students enjoy and benefit from their PE class experiences. I expect that my students feel a sense of satisfaction that they learned something new or worked on improving their fitness level.
May News
Field day is Wednesday May 22,2024 CBS 9:20-10:50
Rain Date is Thursday May 23, 2024
Please join us at the field !
Click on the link below if you would like to help on field day
Click on the links below for PE/health
April News
We will play with the parachute in April and then start learning our field day games.
A sign-up genius will be made available as soon as all the information needed is complete.
March News
Mr. DeMarco will move on to student teach at BRHS for the remainder of this year. He is doing a great job working with our students at Clara Barton. The students worked on jumping rope, cooperative games, throwing and catching, striking, and batting. The students played a game of Pilo-Polo and a lead up baseball game . Please click on the link below if you would like a conference with me.
Mrs. Gray- Spring 2024 Parent Teacher Sign-up Link
February News
The students will learn various cooperative games in gym class. Mr. DeMarco will be putting together games that will teach skills as well as working together to achieve success!
January News
The project for second grade requires one water bottle for each student. Make sure their name is on the bottom or cap with marker.
The students will play cooperative games in the gym to start off the new year!
The students will move on to work on the skill of jumping rope. My student teacher will start to implement lessons and by February teach the classes with the lessons he has created. Your students are very excited to have two teachers in the gym each day!
December News
This year is flying by! The students are learning basketball skills, including passing, dribbling, and shooting in P.E. class. Ask them what B.E.E.F. stands for. The students will start to play various cooperative games working together to accomplish tasks. Christopher DeMarco will be here five days a week in January and February to finish up his elementary experience.
November News
The students will learn football skills, rolling, and play lead up games to practice the skills. My student teacher Christopher DeMarco from Rowan will be here from October 31, 2023 until May 2024. The students will start the skills used to play a lead up game of basketball.
If your student is in second grade please send in an empty thick plastic water/gatorade bottle with their name on the bottom for a health lesson project.
Fall 2023 Parent Teacher Conference Sign up Link
2023-2024 Health topics
Health lessons for K-
9-1-1
Teeth
Fire Safety
Skeletal System
Circulatory System
Nutrition
Families
Health lessons for first grade-
Muscular System
Digestive System
Stranger Safety
Bike Safety
Nutrition
Healthy habits
Health lessons for second grade-
Nutrition
Conflicts
Friendships
Nervous system
Internet Safety
Mindfulness (Relaxation/calming jar)- water bottle needs to be sent to school
Self image
Physical Education Days by homeroom teacher
Gravier-Tuesday, Wednesday
Kindergarten
H. Martino-Tuesday, Wednesday
J.Martino-Thursday, Friday
Oliver-Monday, Wednesday
Planas-Thursday, Friday
First Grade
Kleppe/Mulligan-Thursday, Friday
Purves-Monday, Tuesday
Silva-Tuesday, Wednesday
Suggs-Thursday, Friday
Second Grade
Farina-Monday, Wednesday
Mangene-Monday, Tuesday
Mitchell-Monday, Tuesday
Vandegrift- Thursday, Friday
October News
The students are learning all about personal space and pathways in P.E. class. I hope they show you some new skills. We started to practice how to jump rope and hula hoop.
In October the students will learn soccer skills and play a lead up game at the end of the unit. The students will learn skills to practice with an autumn theme. They are working very hard in physical education class this year. I am so happy to see them enjoying PE class. The students are working on doing a push-up during warm-ups. The students should always wear sneakers or bring them to participate in class. In health, the students are learning about digestion, muscles, nutrition, and safety.
Fall 2023 Parent Teacher Conference Sign up Link
Gravier-Tuesday, Wednesday
Kindergarten
H. Martino-Tuesday, Wednesday
J.Martino-Thursday, Friday
Oliver-Monday, Wednesday
Planas-Thursday, Friday
First Grade
Kleppe/Mulligan-Thursday, Friday
Purves-Monday, Tuesday
Silva-Tuesday, Wednesday
Suggs-Thursday, Friday
Second Grade
Farina-Monday, Wednesday
Mangene-Monday, Tuesday
Mitchell-Monday, Tuesday
Vandegrift- Thursday, Friday
Posts
Virtual PE
- Name
- Kelly Gray
- Position
- Physical Education/Health Teacher
- Send email
- Phone
- 609-298-0676 Ext. 3121
