Exploring Option 2 in High School Physical Education
Paige Hall
Co-Presenters: Paige Hall, Cara McCoy, Alexander Vega, Alyssa White, Katelyn Kelly
College: College of Education
Major: BS.PHYED/HLTH/P12
Faculty Research Mentor: Olsen, Edward
Abstract:
IntroductionThere is a significant gap in research regarding whether students who waive physical education for Option 2 are meeting national and state standards that reflect the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary for lifelong health and physical activity. The purpose of this study was to explore school administrators’ and physical education teachers’ perceptions and experiences of implementing Option 2 in high school physical education. A secondary aim was to offer recommendations to improve this policy and practice in New Jersey high schools.MethodsThis study utilized a case study design (Yin, 2018). The setting took place in New Jersey. Data sources were interviews (n = 21) and policy documents (n = 10). The participants were school administrators (n = 15) who supervise high school physical education in New Jersey and high school physical education teachers (n = 6) from the same district in New Jersey. The data were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis (Braun & Clark, 2012). Sampling techniques consisted of maximum variation, key knowledgeables, and reputational, and snowball sampling (Patton, 2015). Trustworthiness of data focused on triangulation, audit trail, member reflections, intercoder reliability, and field testing.ResultsThe findings revealed significant variation in the effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance of Option 2 across school districts in New Jersey. While some school districts implemented clear policies, procedures, and accountability, others exercised minimal oversight, guidance, and support. Future research is needed from the perspective of students, parents, and board of education members governing Option 2.ConclusionAlthough Option 2 can benefit students with demanding academic or athletic schedules, participation in extracurricular activities should not replace the educational objectives of physical education. Enhancing program quality, clarifying expectations, and strengthening oversight may help ensure that Option 2 effectively supports student health and well-being while maintaining access to meaningful physical education experiences.Keywords: exemptions, waivers, individualized learning opportunities, state and district policy