MATCH UP (Maternal and Child Health Upliftment and Progress), a student-led organization with most of its leadership team from Charles J. Colgan Sr. High School, petitioned for months to have Unified Physical Education (PE) count as a required physical education (PE) credit for graduation. Unified Physical Education provides a unique opportunity for students with and without disabilities to come together through ongoing educational and physical activities.  The group’s efforts have now paved the way for greater inclusivity and recognition of diverse student needs within the education system.

In a recent special meeting, the Virginia Board of Education unanimously approved Unified PE as an alternative to traditional PE classes. Students can now earn PE credit for a portion of 9th and 10th grade PE/Health through Unified PE. Unified PE allows students to engage in activities that break down barriers, promote acceptance and understanding, and foster a more inclusive school environment. This decision marks a significant milestone for inclusive education in Virginia.

The MATCH UP leadership team attended the Virginia Board of Education’s special meeting, where the vote took place. During the meeting, MATCH UP Founder and President Rania Lateef delivered a compelling speech, emphasizing the significant positive impact this change will have on students across the state.

Colgan High School Assistant Principal and MATCH UP Advisor, Dr. David Parrish, encouraged the group to advocate for this important change.

"MATCH-UP has been such a supportive and understanding group. These students understand how meaningful Colgan culture is to our community. They also recognized the value of our Unified Physical Education class, and the Unified spirit in general,” he said. “We are so proud of their advocacy and leadership. Colgan High School is a special place because of how these young people, and our entire school community, open their hearts and minds to acceptance and friendship."

Previously, PWCS offered Unified PE as an elective course for 11th and 12th grade students at nearly every high school. The Virginia Board of Education’s recent approval to offer Unified PE as an alternative to traditional 9th and 10th grade PE courses gives students more flexibility in fulfilling their physical education graduation requirements.

It's important to note, this change allows students in Unified PE to earn credit for the PE portion of the Health/PE course, but not the entire course. Divisions that choose to utilize Unified PE as a substitute course for PE must have options for students to meet the expectations of the Health Standards of Learning and Driver Education Standards of Learning. Additionally, Unified PE does not replace Adapted PE services. Adapted PE services may be embedded within the Unified PE class. Adapted PE services are designed to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities, ensuring they receive the same benefits as their peers through modifications and accommodations in their Individualized Education Program (IEP). These services may be provided in a variety of settings.

PWCS strongly supports the introduction of Unified PE as an alternative to traditional PE credit and is actively exploring methods to integrate it into the curriculum.