09/01/2026
New Blog Post: Back to School Tips From a National Middle School PE Teacher of the Year by Leah Wheeling from our National Teacher of the Year Blog Series
“Welcome to sixth grade physical education at Simle Middle School — the course where you will be given unlimited opportunities to challenge yourself, learn with peers, and belong to a family that moves and makes healthy choices!”
This is how I welcome students into my class … always stated in an enthusiastic tone, with a vibrant smile, and with eye contact that welcomes students to share their thoughts on PE. The first week of my physical education and digital literacy class is all about building the correct structure and identifying the amazing opportunities that middle school can provide. I want students to understand they belong in my class and they can be successful.
Together, we’ll set expectations through student and class contracts, practice procedures, and experience activities that emphasize teamwork, communication, problem-solving, and personal growth. We’ll celebrate little successes, encourage one another, and begin setting individual goals.
Read now:
The first week of middle school PE is all about building the correct structure and identifying the amazing opportunities that middle school can provide. Here are some back to school tips for middle…