By Molly Liston, Physical Education & Health Teacher
First of all, I would love to introduce myself! My name is Molly, known by Ms. Molly to the students, and I’ve been working at PNA since 2015. Some of you might not know me since I took last year off after the birth of my youngest child, Huck. My oldest little man, Oakley, is a student here at PNA in the pre-school program. Before teaching at PNA I taught Adventure PE in the school district and taught outdoor ed classes at UAA as well. My love for the outdoors is immeasurable and I am so thankful that I am able to share that love with your kids. I grew up in a family that plays sports constantly and am so thankful that my parents supported my siblings and I to try ALL the sports we showed interest in. I ended up playing softball in college and my love for sports has continued into adulthood through watching and teaching….and sometimes still trying to re-live my glory days without ruining my body.
Although most kiddos love PE, I do understand that some don’t. I always try to meet the students where they are currently at and to instill a desire to maintain a healthy lifestyle. That might look different for each kid and I support that. I do ask kids to try their best, but also want them to know that their best might look different from day to day. I encourage them to be goofy, yell (not scream because screaming is awful!), run through puddles, try new things, take risks (with a plan of course) and to move their bodies in fun and different ways. Please reach out to me if you have any questions or concerns about your kiddos health or involvement in PE class.
Our first unit was running! The kids were timed at the beginning of school doing the mile. I did measure a bit incorrectly and learned of that mistake by a student (thank you GPS watches). Whoops! But the point was that they attempt to beat their time after a few weeks of training and skill development. And guess what? Almost every student beat their time! I was amazed at how dedicated these kids were. They were excited and to see their faces after I told them they improved was priceless. That’s why I teach right there. This unit wasn’t about competing with others, it was about competing with yourself and improving. Their running skills improved and that’s all I can ask for. I will be honest though, so kiddos didn’t like running at all and that was ok too. Walking is also a great form of exercise and speed walking is an Olympic sport so that counts!
Ms. Wendy, who took over for me last year and is teaching classes this year to make sure all kiddos have PE 4 or 5 times a week, is also leading running club after school. Many of your kids have shown interest and I’ve noticed quite a few of them have signed up. If the times don’t work for you please know that there are TONS of opportunities around town to encourage your kids interest in running. The Tuesday Night races begin in two weeks and Skinny Raven has a whole calendar of events. No kiddo is too young or to small to become involved in running. I hope to see you out on the trails running or walking soon!