SHAPE America

SHAPE America
Name	SHAPE America
Founded	1885
Location	Reston, Virginia
Focus	Health education, physical education
Website	https://www.shapeamerica.org

SHAPE America. The Society of Health and Physical Educators, known as SHAPE America, is the nation's largest membership organization dedicated to advancing professional practice and promoting research in health and physical education. Founded in the late 19th century, it serves as the primary advocate for strong programs in schools and communities across the United States. The organization provides critical standards, resources, and professional development to educators, shaping policies that impact student well-being from early childhood through higher education.

History

The organization traces its origins to 1885 with the founding of the Association for the Advancement of Physical Education by pioneers like William G. Anderson. This group later evolved into the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD), a name it held for decades. Throughout the 20th century, it responded to societal shifts, including wartime fitness initiatives and the growth of intramural sports. A major restructuring occurred in 2013, leading to the rebranding as SHAPE America, a move designed to create a more unified and modern identity focused on health and physical literacy. Key historical milestones include its role in developing the first national physical education standards and its long-standing publication of the Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance.

Mission and vision

The mission is to advance professional practice and promote research related to health and physical education. Its vision champions a nation where all children are prepared to lead healthy, physically active lives through high-quality programs. This guiding philosophy is rooted in the belief that health literacy and physical literacy are fundamental components of a well-rounded education. The organization aligns its work with broader public health goals, such as those outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, to combat issues like childhood obesity and sedentary lifestyles.

Standards and guidelines

The organization is renowned for establishing the **National Standards for K-12 Physical Education**, which define what students should know and be able to do. These evidence-based standards are complemented by grade-level outcomes and guidelines for appropriate practice. It also publishes the **National Health Education Standards**, providing a framework for skills-based health instruction. These documents are widely adopted by state departments of education, such as the New York State Education Department and the California Department of Education, to shape local curricula. The standards directly influence the development of assessments and instructional materials used in districts nationwide.

Professional development and resources

It offers extensive professional development through its annual national convention, regional conferences, and specialized institutes. Members access a vast repository of resources, including lesson plans, position statements, and research briefs. Key publications include the Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance and Strategies: A Journal for Physical and Sport Educators. The organization also provides recognition through awards like the Physical Education Teacher of the Year and offers grant opportunities in partnership with entities like the National Football League through the NFL PLAY 60 program. Online learning modules and webinars support ongoing educator growth.

Advocacy and public engagement

Advocacy efforts are central to its work, focusing on securing federal and state support for health and physical education. The organization mobilizes members to engage with legislators on Capitol Hill and promotes initiatives like National Physical Education and Sport Week. It partners with prominent groups such as the American Heart Association and the President's Council on Sports, Fitness & Nutrition to amplify its message. Public awareness campaigns, including the "50 Million Strong by 2029" commitment, aim to demonstrate the critical role of these disciplines in student success and public health.

Organizational structure

Governed by a board of directors and supported by various committees, the organization operates from its headquarters in Reston, Virginia. Membership is organized into state affiliates, which coordinate local advocacy and professional learning. Distinctive structures include councils focused on specific interests, such as the Council on Physical Education for Children and the Society of Health and Physical Educators. It maintains strategic partnerships with other major educational bodies, including the National Association for Sport and Physical Education and the American School Health Association, to extend its influence and resource network.

Category:Educational organizations based in the United States Category:Physical education organizations Category:Health education organizations