Let seniors take PE

Cullen Avent ’23
Seniors at Strake Jesuit cannot currently take Physical Education as a course. Although many seniors at Jesuit partake in a sport, those who don’t are without an opportunity during the school day to remain active and fit. The lack of recreational athletic activity paired with the fact that seniors cannot leave campus during the school day results in many students’ sleeping or being unproductive during their free periods. In addition to a lack of productivity, the abundance of free periods that seniors receive leads to the morale of students dropping, as most have nothing to do and nowhere to go.
If seniors were given the option to participate in a PE class during their free period, it would likely boost morale, productivity, and brotherhood. Students would be given an hour to lift weights, play basketball, and bond over mutual activities.
If a senior were to be enrolled in a PE class but unable to participate because of having a test they need to study for, they would receive the option to take a teacher-monitored study hall during their PE period. Having the option to partake in either physical activity or academics would greatly improve the mental and emotional well-being of Jesuit’s students.
Although many seniors might be unable to participate in PE because of scheduling conflicts with their sports, those who can participate will likely remain competitive in their physical endeavors, fostering an environment where everyone makes each other better.