Should I take PE over the summer?

Physical Education (PE) is a mandatory course for high school students in many countries. For Virginia students, PE is mandatory in 9th and 10th grade. However, some students choose to take PE over the summer to free up space in their regular school year schedules. In this blog post, we will explore the pros and cons of taking PE over the summer in high school.

Pros:

Free up elective spots in your regular school year schedule

One of the biggest advantages of taking PE over the summer is that it frees up elective spots in your regular school year schedule. By completing your PE requirement over the summer, you can take more elective courses during the school year, which can help you explore different subjects and interests.

More flexibility in summer scheduling

Taking PE over the summer can also give you more flexibility in scheduling. You can choose to take PE at a time that suits your schedule, which can be helpful if you have other commitments during the school year.

More time for other activities during the school year

By completing your PE requirement over the summer, you have more time for other activities during the school year. You can join clubs, sports teams, or participate in other extracurricular activities without worrying about the time constraints of a mandatory PE class.

Avoid the winter months

In some areas, PE classes are held outside during the winter months, which can be unpleasant and even dangerous in some cases. By taking PE over the summer, you can avoid the cold and snow and enjoy the outdoors during the warmer months.

Cons:

Potential for more difficult coursework during the school year

PE is often seen as an easy "filler" class that balances out an otherwise rigorous schedule. You might be taking several other AP classes or have other demands on your time in high school. If the elective you are replacing the PE spot with is difficult, you are likely making your school year more challenging by choosing to take PE over the summer. Be mindful about your overall rigor and ensure that you are still able to navigate strong grades.

Limited social interaction

One of the biggest drawbacks of taking PE over the summer is that you may miss out on the social interaction that comes with a regular school year PE class. You may not have the opportunity to meet and interact with as many students as you would in a regular PE class.

Less structure

Summer courses can be less structured than regular school year courses, which can be challenging for some students. If you thrive in a highly structured environment, you may struggle to stay motivated and on track with your coursework in a summer PE class.

More expensive

Summer courses can be more expensive than regular school year courses. You may have to pay additional fees for the summer PE class, which can be a financial burden for some families. Fees for a typical summer PE course in Northern Virginia are typically around $300-600

Limited availability

Not all high schools offer PE courses during the summer. If your school does not offer summer PE courses, you may have to look for other options, such as community college or online courses, which can be more expensive or less convenient.

In conclusion, taking PE over the summer in high school has its pros and cons. It can free up elective spots in your regular school year schedule, give you more flexibility in scheduling, and allow you to have more time for other activities during the school year. However, it can also limit your social interaction, be less structured, be more expensive, and have limited availability. Consider your priorities, goals, and personal preferences when deciding whether or not to take PE over the summer.