Members of the Wichita State University K-12 Student Organization showcased their expertise by leading a Secondary Physical Education (P.E.) session as part of the activities portion for the professional development in-service at South High School USD 259 on February 14, 2025. The session was inspired by their Kansas Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (KAHPERD) conference presentation which introduced new games and activities to local P.E. educators. The success of their KAHPERD presentation led to the invitation to lead the two sessions for the in-service. 

The WSU students hosted two interactive sessions, featuring a hands-on Olympic-style format that has been successfully used in their own classes. Activities included:

• Soccer Bowling
• H-Ball
• Soccer Hockey

These games provided teachers with fun, innovative ways to engage students in physical education. More than 60 P.E. teachers attended, participating in both the activities and a Q&A session, where WSU students shared lesson plans and implementation strategies.

The goal of the session was to equip P.E. teachers with creative game ideas and strategies to enhance their classrooms and make physical activity more engaging. The WSU students drew inspiration from their own classroom experiences, where they implement Olympic-style activities as a brain break during the finals week in Individual & Team Sports classes. The success of this approach at KAHPERD motivated them to bring it to a larger audience.

This experience was a valuable learning opportunity for both the P.E. teachers and the WSU students. While educators gained new techniques to implement in their classes, WSU students had the chance to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting, strengthening their academic and professional development and preparing them for future careers in physical education. 

Looking ahead, the K-12 Student Organization is preparing for its third annual Cornhole Tournament, set for April 5, 2025 at Social Tap. This year, Social Tap is sponsoring the event, and students are excited to collaborate with them to create another fun, community-building experience.

WSU K-12 Student Organization Members in Attendance at the in-service:

• Bailey Spencer
• Ian Stevens (President)
• Bramwell Slaven (VP)
• Ben Patterson
• Madison Ammerman
• Julia Mead
• Charlize Lichlyter