Omaha Public Schools adopts Spark PE program for K-12 physical education

The Omaha Public Schools Board of Education meeting on June 2, 2025, highlighted a significant advancement in the district's physical education curriculum, aimed at enhancing student health and academic performance. Cody Shevlin, the teaching learning consultant for K-12 physical education, presented a comprehensive recommendation for new curriculum materials and resources that promise to enrich the educational experience for students across all grade levels.

The proposed curriculum, which includes the well-regarded Spark PE program, is designed to integrate physical activity with literacy development, thereby improving concentration, memory, and classroom behavior. Shevlin emphasized that a robust physical education program not only supports students' physical health but also aligns with the district's broader goals of literacy and critical thinking skills, essential for the "portrait of a graduate."

The new curriculum materials will be rolled out across elementary, middle, and high schools, with each level receiving tailored resources. Elementary students will benefit from two 50-minute physical education lessons every 10 days, while middle and high school students will have access to semester and year-long courses. The updated curriculum materials, which have not been revised since 2016, will focus on lifelong wellness and engaging student experiences.

Each elementary school will receive a comprehensive Spark PE package, including assessment tools and a variety of equipment designed to foster inclusive participation among all students, including those with disabilities. Middle and high schools will also receive similar packages, ensuring that all students have access to high-quality physical education resources.

The board's decision to adopt these materials is expected to lay a strong foundation for effective teaching and learning, supporting the district's commitment to student health and wellness. The curriculum writing and professional learning for the upcoming school year will begin this summer, with a focus on empowering teachers to bring these new resources to life in their classrooms.

As the district moves forward with these enhancements, the community can look forward to a more dynamic and inclusive physical education experience that not only promotes fitness but also contributes to overall academic success. The collaborative efforts of teachers, community members, and advisory committee participants were acknowledged as vital to this process, underscoring a shared commitment to fostering a healthier future for Omaha's students.