Future physical educators serve local homeschooled children

Many students from the Exercise and Sport Science Department participated in teaching homeschooled students from the Christian Home Educators of Kenosha (CHEK) during the spring term.

EXSS sophomores teaching a PE class for K-8 students in the TARC Field House. Sophomores in the Elementary PE Methods course worked in teams to co-teach over 60 students in grades K-8 for six weeks. This provided Carthage students with an on-campus opportunity to apply theories and methods from the course to practice. The lessons focussed on learning in all three domains and exposed children to many opportunities to develop movement patterns, knowledge, and social skills.

Juniors in the Secondary PE Methods course traveled to an off-campus learning site to deliver four weeks of instruction to high school students. The focus of these lessons was cooperation, social-emotional learning, and lifelong physical fitness.

EXSS juniors instructing high school students off campus. The parents were very appreciative of the PE program we were able to offer their children. Amanda Paul shared, “The Carthage PE program has helped my children emphasize the importance of being physically active as a part of their overall health. Having it in the springtime especially helps after being a little cooped up during the winter months.” In the parent survey, many hoped we would continue and consider more programs for the future.

In debriefing with the leader of CHEK, we decided this experience is so mutually beneficial that we must find ways to continue and build off this partnership.

Ms. Paul stated, “The partnership with Carthage College supports CHEK’s overall commitment to enriching the academic and social experience of home-educating families in our area. We are always seeking opportunities to help home-educating families enhance their educational experience. A partnership with Carthage has been a good fit. I think it broadens the Carthage students’ horizons as well and exposes them to an educational model they may otherwise be unfamiliar with. We have been very grateful for the chance to work with you all.”

Sponsoring Department, Office, or Organization:

Exercise and Sport Science Department

For more information, contact:

Rebekah Johnson: rjohnson17@carthage.edu