October 28, 2013

Dear Westridge Parents,

During this school year, your child will participate in a Fitnessgram® assessment during Physical Education class. This assessment is a selection of health-related fitness items that are scored using criterion-referenced standards. These standards are age- and gender-specific and are based on fitness levels recommended for good health.

The areas measured are strength, flexibility and aerobic capacity. This is not a test of athletic abilities. Your child cannot fail this assessment as it is designed to inform you and your child of where he or she stands in relationship to a healthy fitness level.

Fitnessgram® uses standards that are based on how fit children should be for good health. Most children can achieve these standards by being physically active on a regular basis. The following tips are helpful when encouraging your child to lead an active lifestyle:

·  Provide a safe area with equipment and supplies to play and be active

·  Allow time for your child to be active

·  Limit TV time and video game use

·  Participate in regular physical activity as a family (family walks, bike rides)

·  Encourage your child to participate in physical activity programs and sports

Our goal, through this fitness assessment, is to teach your child to set and measure personal fitness goals for themselves. These skills will last a lifetime! Your child will be tested twice during the school year. Testing results will be confidential and private.

Fitnessgram® was developed by The Cooper Institute and is supported by the National Association for Sport and Physical Education. For more information, please refer to the Fitnessgram® website at http://www.fitnessgram.net.

We are very excited to be able to provide our students and parents with such valuable information. If you have any questions, please contact us. Thanks!

Sincerely,

The Westridge P.E. Department

Tami Wall, Tyler Beerends, Lori Ecker