Katherine Pioli, Health & Physical Education

My path to teaching came indirectly as a result of my own interests and passion for movement and physical challenges and healthy lifestyles. My interest in athletics goes back to college where I joined my school's rowing team. Still today one of my favorite guest classes is having Utah Crew come and talk with the students about our local middle school and high school rowing teams. 

I believe that the classroom is an ideal place to encourage exploration. Middle school is such a great time for kids to be expanding, and trying new things, before we ask them to specialize and narrow down their focus. For my part, in PE, I try to encourage this by bringing a wide range of sports and games from around the world (netball, yoga) as well as covering the classics (basketball, volleyball, kickball).

Physical Education at SLArts is probably not what you remember from middle school gym class. In my class I look for participation and risk-taking. We work towards skill building and team building but I do not emphasize testing or competition. We do not have gym uniforms.

Health is a required class for 7th grade. We touch on a number of important, life-skills and subjects - including but not limited to healthy relationships, adolescent development, nutrition. This class is a valuable space for self-discovery through learning, refection and sharing with their peers.