Physical Education

Students need to dress in appropriate clothing to maximize participation in physical activity and be successful in class.

We want to positively ensure every student will be safe and successful in PE. Proper shoes and fitness attire will increase student participation and safety.

School Code: 7.160 Student dress will not distract from or interfere with the educational process. Students’ dress and grooming is the responsibility of the individual and his/her parents within the following guidelines: 

• Dress and grooming will be in keeping with health, sanitary and safety requirements. 
• When a student is participating in school activities, his/her dress and grooming will not disrupt the performance or constitute a health threat to the individual or other students. 
• Dress and grooming will not be such as to disrupt the teaching-learning process. 

Seven semesters of physical education (PE) are required for graduation from U46 high schools. If you are requesting to be exempt from PE for the upcoming school year, it is important that you understand and acknowledge the terms and conditions which accompany this exemption and that you submit the paperwork by the deadline.  No late submissions will be processed.

The School District U-46 Board of Education approved some new allowable exemptions from physical education classes for seventh through 12th graders.

The District remains committed to providing physical education for our students. We recognize that these classes can form the foundation for lifelong healthy habits and participation in individual and team sports. At the same time, our parents and students have sought flexibility in recent years to better support students’ academic interests and career paths. The District sought and received a PE waiver through the Illinois State Board of Education. This has allowed U46 to re-evaluate the current exemptions we have in place and develop exemptions that balance the importance of physical education while striving to meet the physical, social, emotional, and academic needs of all students.

These exemptions are outlined below. The form must be signed by the student, parent, counselor, and principal or designated administrator. 

These forms need to be renewed each year.

Middle School PE Exemption Form

Formulario de exención de educación física en español de MS

High School PE Exemption Form

Formulario de exención de educación física en español de HS

*Students enrolled in Independent Physical Education are not eligible for PE Exemptions.  Please talk to your counselor about choosing another PE class if you are interested in a PE exemption. 

Medical Accommodation/Exemption from Physical Education:

Physical education requires physical activity to fully participate in skill development and the curriculum is aligned to the Illinois Learning Standards and National Physical Education Standards.  Sometimes, injury, medical conditions, or religious beliefs inhibit a student from being able to participate in physical education.  Below is the process in place for a student who needs a short or long-term medical/religious exemption from physical education.

U46 Elementary PE Medical Exemption Process

U46 Educación Física Primaria Proceso de Exención Médica Español

U46 MS/HS PE Medical Exemption Process

U46 Proceso de Exención Médica de Educación Física Secundaria Español

Religious Accommodation/Exemption from Physical Education: