Physical education, public schools, education, exercise, public ,children,obesity,diabetes A statewide review found that approximately 50%f California's public schools violate a state law that required them to set aside at least 20 minutes a day for physical education and activities.
Out of the 73 school districts examined by the state Department of Education over the past two years,thirty-seven failed in their duty to provide sufficient exercise to the students, and according to public documents obtained by the nonprofit California Center for Public Health Advocacy it was found that there was no penalty for noncompliance. The children in grades 1 through 6 must complete 200 minutes of physical education every 10 days ,in otherwords, 20 minutes per day -,while the mandate is doubled for students in grades 7 through 12.The study group pointed out that increased rate of Type 2 diabetes and obesity was due to poor eating habits and lack of exercise in school .It was also pointed out that children with good health can always do better academically.'
State Legislature bills would ensure compliance, and also allocate $85 million per year for physical education programs.
