Adapted Physical Education Teacher

Adapted Physical Education Teachers conduct diversified programs of developmental activities, games, sports and rhythms suited to the needs, interests, capacities, and limitations of students with disabilities who may not safely or successfully engage in unrestricted participation in the vigorous activities of the general physical education program or a modified program in a regular class.

Nature of Work
Education Required
Personal Qualities
Job Outlook and Advancement
How to Prepare for a Career
Resource Information

Adapted Physical Education PDF brochure

Nature of Work:

Adapts or changes the curriculum to fit the needs of each student.
Adapted physical education teachers are trained to teach children with a variety of physical and mental skill levels.
Alter the equipment or game rules to accommodate special needs.
They study the nature and causes of mild, moderate, and severe disabling conditions, and learn what kinds of physical activities are appropriate for each.

Education Required:

Usually includes a B.A. or B.S. degree in physical education, with 6-18 credits and some type of practicum in adapted physical education.

Personal Qualities:

Believe in the value of physical exercise for every student, regardless of ability level.

Job Outlook and Advancement:

Demand for adapted physical education teachers continues to be steady. Most adapted physical education teachers are employed in K-12 school systems but some are working in early childhood education centers, assisted living residences, nursing homes, and hospitals.

How to Prepare for a Career:

Become skilled in as many physical activities as possible, and teach a skill or game.

Picture of an adapted physical education teacher with a child.

Resource Information:

American Association for Active Lifestyles and Fitness
1900 Association Drive
Reston, VA 20191-1589
703-476-3400
800-213-7193 ext.431

National Consortium for Physical Education
and Recreation for Individuals with Disabilities (NCPERID)
Diane Craft, Ph.D.
Peter J. Ellery, Ph.D.
State University of New York - Cortland
Dept. of Physical Education
P.O. Box 2000
Cortland, NY 13045

PE Central - Adapted Physical Education
P.O. Box 10262
Blacksburg, VA 24062
E-mail: pec@pecentral.org
Phone: 540-953-1043
Fax: 800-783-8124 (USA Toll Free)

More information on the knowledge and skills needed to become an adapted physical educator
from Minnesota State University.