Health and Physical Education

At Nathan Hale-Ray High School, the Health and Physical Education department plays a vital role in fostering the physical, emotional, and social well-being of all students. Through a dynamic combination of fitness training, athletic development, wellness education, and lifelong health skills, the program equips students to make informed decisions and lead balanced, healthy lives.
Health Education is delivered in two core courses: Health 9–10 and Health 11–12. These classes focus on a range of relevant topics including mental health, nutrition, substance abuse prevention, relationships, human development, and personal safety. The curriculum promotes self-awareness, decision-making, and respect for self and others. Lessons emphasize open dialogue, critical thinking, and the practical application of health knowledge in everyday life.
In Physical Education, students can choose from a variety of activity-based courses that match their interests and fitness goals. Options include Principles of Fitness, Team Sports, Strength & Conditioning Training, and Lifetime Fitness Activities. These classes are designed to build cardiovascular endurance, strength, flexibility, coordination, and teamwork through structured workouts, sports, and games. Students are encouraged to set personal goals, monitor their progress, and develop healthy exercise habits that will serve them beyond high school.
The department also offers Unified Physical Education, a uniquely inclusive course where students of all abilities participate in physical activities together, promoting empathy, cooperation, and friendship in a supportive environment. This program reflects the school’s commitment to equity and community-building through movement and shared experience.
Each class in the department emphasizes personal growth, resilience, and the development of lifelong wellness skills. Physical Education courses use a variety of assessment tools, including fitness testing, self-reflection, and skill demonstrations, while Health Education emphasizes project-based learning, real-world scenarios, and open discussions to reinforce key concepts.
Teachers in the Health and PE department bring energy, compassion, and expertise to their instruction, creating spaces where students feel motivated, included, and supported. Whether a student is training for a sport, developing mindfulness strategies, or simply looking to lead a healthier life, they will find opportunities to thrive in this program.
By integrating movement, health education, and character development, Nathan Hale-Ray’s Health and Physical Education program empowers students to make choices that support their physical vitality and emotional well-being for years to come.