At Harbor we believe motor development supports academic achievement, a belief borne out by research. At one time, only the genetically gifted athlete was rewarded in school. That time is long gone, and while we urge those of our students who are gifted young athletes toward higher and higher achievement, we ask all of our students to do their best only in comparison to themselves. As in Harbor's academic programs, our physical education program is highly individualized and supportive.
All children at Harbor take physical education classes. Grades 5-8 take a P.E. class every day, while grades K-4 and Early Childhood children go three days a week. Physical Education classes take place either in our gymnasium or outdoors on our beautiful playing fields.
The elements of the physical education program include physical fitness; motor skills; rhythmic activities; play, sports and leisure; and body management. We stress cooperative games, movement and sports activities. We want to develop physical skills - ball, body control, rope, and hand-eye; mental skills - verbal and visual awareness, elaboration of information, and critical thinking; and affective skills -- respect, fair play, honesty and responsibility.
Many of our graduates will play competitive team sports in secondary school. In all our students, though, we hope to instill an appreciation of the vital role physical activity plays in a healthy life. We hope that each child will learn to exercise daily, just as they learn to brush their teeth.
