There is a high school in Dubuque, Iowa that provides PE credit to students who do yard work for senior citizens and disabled people in the community. Instead of playing sports or doing laps in gym class, these students volunteer 2 hours a week to help those who could use the help.
Joe’s Perspective: Some people love PE class, others do not. I know kids who purposefully “forget” their workout clothes just to avoid the activities in their PE course. They have no interest in learning volleyball, pickleball or any other kind of ball. Well, this high school found an alternate activity. The kids are still active and learning skills that will benefit them later in life. They mow lawns, pick weeds, plant trees… It’s simple and it works. The students learn to give back and they learn what it feels like to do something nice for others. Many of the students continue to volunteer their time well after their credit is earned. I’m also quite sure that the senior citizens appreciate the help too. Sounds like a win-win to me.
Your Turn: What do you think of this program? If your PE teacher offered this as an alternative to playing sports in class, would you prefer to volunteer your time and services to the community?
