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Medford School Committee approves more flexible health and physical-education requirements for graduation
Summary
On June 9 the Medford School Committee approved revised language to Policy IKF to allow more scheduling flexibility for Health I/II and to permit an independent-study option to satisfy part of the physical-education requirement at Medford High School.
The Medford School Committee on June 9 approved updated language to Policy IKF to give high school students more flexibility in when they take Health I and Health II and to expand options for meeting physical-education requirements.
The change moves Health I and Health II to more-flexible grade windows (students may complete Health I or II in alternate years depending on schedule) and keeps the physical-education requirement at eight semesters while allowing four of those semesters to be satisfied either by Medford High School courses or by an approved independent-study pathway.
Superintendent Dr. Galusi told the committee the revision is intended to "increase flexibility for our students" and to allow course sequencing that fits students' individual schedules. Director Rachel Perry explained the independent-study option: "The independent study was created so that students would have some flexibility and be able to take some more courses, within their day. There's a lot of our students that do take things outside of school, dance, jujitsu, things like that." Perry said independent-study credit would require prior approval and documentation from the outside instructor.
The independent-study pathway described in the packet and on the linked guidance allows multiple routes to satisfy the four-semester onsite requirement: (1) continued enrollment in Medford High School physical-education courses, (2) participation in a Massachusetts Interscholastic Athletic Association (MIAA)–sanctioned sport (with approval), or (3) an instructionally based outside activity (dance, martial arts, etc.) that is supported by an instructor log and district approval. Perry said the district has used similar independent-study arrangements previously for students pursuing intensive academic sequences.
Committee members discussed how the change preserves the district's commitment to health education while opening scheduling options. Member Graham said the flexibility "creates a lot of options" and noted interest in carrying similar opportunities into middle school later. Member Russo raised a related point about outreach to former students who may now request diplomas under adjusted requirements and asked that the district make the website request process clearer for adults seeking diplomas.
Member Entapa moved to approve the updated language; Member Olipade seconded. The committee waived the formal reading and approved the revision.
The policy change takes effect for the coming school year; district staff said guidance and the independent-study application process will be posted before students enroll for fall schedules.
