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On April 23, the Boardman School Board approved a policy change that will enable school athletes, cheerleaders and marching band members to be excused from the physical education graduation requirement.
The PE Waiver is in accordance with Senate Bill 311, and will allow students in grades 9-10 to be excused, as long as they participate in two full seasons of athletics, cheerleading and/or marching band. They would also be required to complete one half credit in another course of study.
Principal Cindy Fernback says the change will make it easier for many students trying to fit more classes into their schedules, who are often compelled to take PE during the summer at a charge of $150.
“Many Ohio schools take advantage of the waiver opportunity so that students already involved in physically challenging programs and practices can use their class time to explore other options that may interest them,” according to Fernback. “It’s also a recognition by the Board, of the rigor and high quality athletic coaching that our kids are receiving in Boardman.”
Marching band also meets the state’s – and now Boardman’s – waiver standard. Band camp in August is eight hours a day, and they march and perform for months on end.
“We believe both parents and students will be happy about the flexibility the waiver will provide,” said Fernback.
The guidance office will begin accepting waivers now for next school year. All forms must be verified by a coach, director or advisor.