Student urges ISL program recognition for PE credit; board cites curriculum and liability concerns

A Chatham High student urged the School District of the Chathams to allow the ISL (interscholastic/independent sports-learning) program to satisfy physical-education requirements, and raised safety concerns; district officials responded that curriculum-alignment and program oversight remain the primary obstacles.

Student Emily Smith told the board she had spoken previously in May in support of the ISL program and asked the district to consider options to allow students who participate in athletics outside of school to earn equivalent physical-education credit. She also raised concerns about harassment related to some outside programs and urged better education for students on how to advocate for themselves.

Superintendent Michael LaSouza and board members acknowledged the comment and said the district's main concern is whether private or outside programs meet the state-mandated curriculum for physical education. LaSouza said that, even in peer districts where students participate heavily in outside athletics, students still attend health and physical-education classes: "My own kids are varsity athletes in another school district nearby. And, even so still have to go to health and phys ed class every day," he said, adding that he did not plan to change any recommendation for next year in his final days as superintendent.

Board members also noted secondary concerns such as safety, supervision and contractual liability when an outside provider, rather than district staff, delivers instruction. The board encouraged continued conversation and said parents and students can expect additional explanation of the district's position and processes.

No formal action was taken at the meeting on the ISL request; the student comment and district response were recorded in the public commentary portion of the agenda.