Bona Verba from the Headmaster
At Cincinnati Classical Academy, physical education is a fundamental component of a comprehensive education that nurtures students’ overall well-being and academic success. Research consistently demonstrates the numerous benefits of regular physical activity (see Christopher M. Palmers’s Brain Energy or John J. Ratey’s Spark), making a compelling case for daily physical education in schools. At a time when academic pressures often take center stage, we must also give due attention to the physical development, discipline, and mental well-being of our students.
Studies reveal a strong correlation between physical activity and improved focus and discipline in traditional classroom settings. When students engage in rigorous physical activity for at least an hour during the school day, they experience heightened attention spans, increased concentration, and enhanced cognitive abilities. The benefits extend beyond the physical realm, with students demonstrating improved self-regulation, problem-solving skills, and discipline.
Physical coordination plays a pivotal role in academic achievement. Activities requiring coordination and gross motor skills, such as sports and organized games, stimulate brain development and enhance neural connections. These activities cultivate spatial awareness, fine-tune motor skills, and develop kinesthetic intelligence, all contributing to improved academic performance. By integrating physical education into the school day, we nurture both the body and the mind.
Additionally, daily physical exercise deters a wide range of emotional and psychological issues. Physical fitness reduces stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression, promoting mental well-being. Engaging in physical activity releases endorphins, known as the “feel-good” hormones, which elevate mood and contribute to a positive outlook. By fostering an active lifestyle from an early age, we equip students with tools to navigate challenges and develop resilience.
We believe that Cincinnati Classical Academy stands as an exemplary model, recognizing the importance of daily physical education, recess, athletics, and outdoor play outside of school hours and during the summer months. We are proud to be able to say that, in addition to daily recess time, we offer 45-minutes of PE class every day for every student. By incorporating physical activity into our curriculum, our commitment to physical well-being benefits students physically and strengthens their mental and emotional health.
Physical education cultivates well-rounded individuals equipped with essential life skills. Team sports promote collaboration, communication, and leadership qualities, fostering important social skills that extend far beyond the playing field. Furthermore, physical education instills lifelong habits of healthy living, encouraging students to prioritize their well-being and make informed choices about their physical health.
As we champion the importance of academic excellence, we must not overlook the undeniable benefits of daily physical education. By allocating time for daily physical activity, we create an environment that supports students’ overall development. Daily PE at CLASSICAL enhances academic focus and discipline while promoting physical coordination, emotional well-being, and preparing students for a healthy and successful future.
Mr. Michael Rose
Meet the Headmaster
Mr. Rose has taught various courses at Brown University, Cincinnati Moeller, and The Summit Country Day School. As a part of his degree work in education, Mr. Rose’s research interests included the Great Books curriculum, the Paideia teaching method, and the “effects of emerging digital technology on student reading, writing, and researching.” Read More