Adaptive Physical Education Specialists
Requirements
Education and Training Requirements
High School
A well-rounded high school education is a good foundation for future adapted physical education work. Math, science, English, and psychology classes are helpful. Take as many physical education classes as possible and participate in sports. The job entails knowledge of database software and other programs, so be sure to take computer courses also.
Postsecondary Education
Most public schools require adapted physical education specialists to hold a bachelors degree and teaching license or certificate. Private schools may not have these requirements. Undergraduate coursework includes physical education, sports science, kinesiology, biology, psychology, health, recreation, dance, and related subjects. Many adapted physical education specialists earn a Master of Science in Education, specializing in adapted physical education.
Certification
Adapted physical education specialists who meet qualifications and pass an exam can receive the Certified Adapted Physical Education (CAPE) designation through the Adapted Physical Education National Standards. Recent graduates of physical education programs, professional physical education teachers, and those teaching in higher education and academic programs are eligible for certification. The CAPE designation lasts for seven years.
Certification, Licensing, and Special Requirements
Certification or Licensing
All public schools require teachers to be licensed. For employment, teachers must have completed a teacher preparation program, which includes supervised teaching experience. Many states offer general licenses for special education, allowing teachers to work with students with disabilities. Special education teachers, including adapted physical education teachers, must complete a period of student teaching to qualify for licensing. Student teaching may last for one to two years and entails creating lesson plans and teaching students in a classroom setting under the guidance and supervision of a mentor teacher. Student teaching is often included in undergraduate and graduate programs for special education.
Other Requirements
Many schools require teachers to have a clean record and pass a background check, possibly including a drug test, to qualify for employment.
Experience, Skills, and Personality Traits
Employers prefer to hire adapted physical education specialists with at least two to three years of work-related experience. The job requires clear communication skills, careful listening, patience, and flexibility. Interest in helping others is essential in this field. Students needs will frequently change, and adapted physical education specialists must pay close attention to their students progress and adjust their physical education programs to ensure goals are achieved. There are many challenges in this work. Students may be difficult at times and become frustrated, and its up to the adapted physical education specialists to encourage them and give positive, constructive feedback. General fitness and stamina are needed for demonstrating physical activities. Computer skills are needed for record-keeping, report writing, and communicating with other teachers, coworkers, students, and parents.