Physical Education

The physical education facilities include a gymnasium plus a second multipurpose room almost as large as the gymnasium. A large outside grass field is used for games such as soccer and football and is equipped with climbing apparatus, slides and swings. An asphalt paved area is used for jumping rope, running, relays, and games.

South Salem School has a large inventory of gym equipment which allows all students to participate in the use of beanbags, jump ropes, basketballs, soccer balls, and playground balls.

The Physical Education program has one full time teacher and one part-time teacher. Kindergarten, grade one, and grade two participate in physical education twice each week with the physical education teacher. On other days they participate with the classroom teacher. Grades three through five have physical education three times each week with a physical education teacher.

The physical education curriculum is based on the Virginia Standards of Learning, and the Salem School System curriculum objectives.

The Physical Education Program strives to develop:

1. An appreciation for lifetime physical fitness.
   
2. An awareness of individual and group safety.
   
3. A sense of pleasure in physical education class.
   
4. Basic physical skills, such as, coordination, strength, endurance, flexibility, and agility.
   
5. An appreciation for the wise use of leisure time.
   
6. Good sportsmanship.
   
7. Specific skills needed for the next level of education.
   
8. Cooperative skills for use in small and large groups.