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Overview

Physical Education in the City School District of Albany is an integral and required part of the total educational experience. At Albany High, our program emphasizes individualized and lifetime fitness-centered activities. It is student-centered and focuses on active participation while promoting health and wellness.

Although physical activity is the centerpiece, our curriculum also incorporates physiology, theory, health, nutrition and games. Physical Education uses sport and activity as a vehicle to teach physical fitness concepts and meet the needs of all students. The goal is to expose students to a wide variety of activities so they can identify those they enjoy and use them to achieve lifelong fitness and health. Students will learn the connection between exercise and its role in improving quality of life.

Grade 9–10 Physical Education

Students in grades 9 and 10 will participate in a curriculum that includes swimming as part of their physical education experience. The program introduces foundational fitness concepts, aquatic safety and basic swimming skills alongside traditional activities such as team sports, individual fitness and wellness education.

Grade 11–12 Physical Education

Students in grades 11 and 12 will engage in a curriculum designed to promote lifetime fitness and personal wellness. Activities include advanced fitness training, recreational sports, and individualized fitness planning. Emphasis is placed on developing skills and habits that support lifelong health and physical activity.

Adaptive Physical Education

Adaptive Physical Education (APE) is a specialized physical education program designed to ensure that all students, regardless of ability level, have access to high-quality physical activity experiences in a safe and positive environment. APE is a direct service required under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and may also support students with temporary or chronic medical conditions in accordance with their medical certificate of limitations or 504 Plan. The program adapts activities, rules and equipment—such as using softer balls, larger targets, modified playing areas or supportive devices—to meet individual needs and promote physical literacy, which includes the motivation, confidence, competence, knowledge and understanding to engage in physical activity for life. The goal is to help every student improve fitness, balance, coordination and overall quality of life while meeting New York State Physical Education Learning Standards.

Students Unable to Participate Due to Medical Reasons

If a student has a medical reason and cannot participate in Physical Education, they must bring a doctor’s note to the Physical Education nurse. The nurse will review the documentation and place the student on an alternate assignment until they are cleared by their doctor to resume physical activity.
 

This course focuses on helping students build the essential health skills needed to make informed, responsible decisions throughout their lives. Through authentic instructional practices and real-world scenarios, students develop competencies in communication, decision-making, goal setting, stress management, advocacy and analyzing influences. Students will explore key health topics—including mental health, substance use, relationships, sexual health and personal safety—while learning how to apply health skills to their own daily lives. The goal of this course is to empower students to strengthen their well-being, build resilience, develop empathy and positively contribute to the health of their families, communities and themselves.