Physical Education & Health Philosophy

West Side High School is committed to improving individual growth and development of ALL students through the implementation and assessment of a sequential physical education program consisting of health-related fitness, sports and dance. The program is designed to promote physical activity and fitness as part of a regular healthy lifestyle that ensures a good quality of life for students of all ages. Healthy minds and bodies are essential to academic success. Feeling physically and mentally healthy is paramount as students face intense competition; peer and media pressure; along with the stress of daily physical, emotional, and social activities.

The students will be empowered to choose physical activities, which promote and support a healthy lifestyle of nutrition and weight management; and to maintain a lifetime of wellness and successful living. In alignment with the New Jersey Comprehensive Health Education and Physical Education Standards, the goal of the Physical Education program is to give students the knowledge and skills to develop a personal fitness program which fosters a lifelong commitment to health and wellness through physical activity.

West Side High School’s student-centered curriculum utilizes teaching strategies that identify, support and promote health-enhancing behaviors. Quality health education programs promote each student’s optimum physical, mental, emotional and social development.