State policy does not specify a number of students per class or teacher-to-student ratio in physical education classes.
Physical education must focus on motor skills, fitness, and promoting healthy lifestyles. The Idaho Content Standards for Physical Education, adopted in 2022, serve as the framework for physical education instruction in all grades (Idaho Admin. Code r. 08.02.03.004[1][f]). Physical education is included in State Board of Education approval for curricular materials (Idaho Admin. Code r. 08.02.03.128).
High school students may substitute up to one physical education credit through participation in a sport recognized by the Idaho High School Activities Association or equivalent club sports, provided they demonstrate mastery of physical education standards (Idaho Admin. Code r. 08.02.03.105.01[h][i]).
The administrative code does not mandate recess requirements for elementary or middle school students. Physical activity is encouraged through physical education programs and school activities but lacks specific daily or weekly recess provisions (Idaho Admin. Code r. 08.02.03.104).
No explicit statewide requirements for fitness assessments are included in the regulations.
Projects to develop or improve physical education and outdoor recreation facilities may be eligible for Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grants, provided public recreation is the primary use. Facilities for physical education must be safe and appropriately maintained (Idaho Admin. Code r. 26.01.33.066).
No specific guidance or regulations exist for online physical education courses; however, online course/provider approval is governed in IDAPA 08.02.03.128, and statutes define virtual/blended instruction and how such programs report ADA compliance (Idaho Code §§ 33–1612, 33–1619).
Physical education teachers must hold an appropriate Idaho teaching certification and meet subject-specific qualifications as outlined by the Idaho State Department of Education (IDAPA 08.02.02 and Idaho Admin. Code r. 33–1201).
Adapted physical education is required for students with disabilities as part of their IEP. Schools must ensure that physical education programs meet the needs of all students in compliance with state and federal laws (IDAPA 08.02.03.004[4]; incorporates the Idaho Special Education Manual, 2018).
Outdoor education and recreation facilities eligible for LWCF grants must prioritize public recreation use, although schools can utilize these spaces for physical education programs (Idaho Admin. Code r. 26.01.33.066). Specific funding for physical education programs is not detailed.
Local Education Agencies (LEAs) participating in the National School Lunch/School Breakfast Program must adopt and implement a Local School Wellness Policy pursuant to 7 CFR 210.31, including assessment, transparency, and stakeholder involvement requirements.
There is no specific guidance regarding the evaluation of physical education teachers in regulations.
The Idaho Content Standards for Physical Education were most recently revised and adopted in August 2022, emphasizing motor skills, physical fitness, and health-related knowledge for students (Idaho Admin. Code r. 08.02.03.004[1][f]).
Regulations assign responsibility for physical education policy implementation to LEAs through curriculum standards and graduation requirements. The state lacks comprehensive enforcement provisions such as mandated policies, compliance monitoring, or audits, and does not establish specific penalties for noncompliance.
For more details, call the Idaho State Department of Education at (208) 332–6800, email info@sde.idaho.gov, or go to 650 W. State Street, Boise, ID 83702.