State policy does not specify a number of students per class or teacher-to-student ratio in physical education classes.
The most recent version of the SHAPE America National Physical Education Standards is adopted at the state level. Instruction must include developmentally appropriate activities that focus on motor skills, movement principles, health-related fitness, and social behaviors (Minn. R. 3501.1410; Minn. R. 3501.1400).
Students may be excused from physical education for medical reasons, as documented by a physician, or for religious reasons upon written request by a parent or guardian (Minn. Stat. § 120B.026).
Minnesota strongly encourages schools to provide opportunities for physical activity outside of physical education, such as recess. Recess is strongly encouraged not to be withheld as a form of punishment for students in Grades K–5 (Minn. Stat. § 120B.026).
Statewide fitness assessments are not mandated, and in fact are prohibited in Minnesota. Schools may include fitness-related assessments to integrate the knowledge and skills needed to achieve and maintain a health-enhancing level of physical activity and fitness into their physical education programs (Minn. R. 3501.1410).
The state regulations do not specify requirements for facilities and equipment for physical education.
Online physical education courses are not specifically addressed in regulations, but supplemental online courses are permitted if they align with state standards and do not exceed 50 percent of the student’s education (Chapter 109, SF 3567).
Physical education teachers must hold a valid Minnesota teaching license and meet state standards for effective practice, including content knowledge and pedagogy. Adapted physical education (APE) teachers need additional qualifications and licensure (Minn. R. 8710.4700; Minn. R. 8710.5300).
APE is mandatory for students with disabilities as outlined in their IEP. Instruction must be tailored to ensure equitable access and participation in physical education for all students, including but not limited to English language learners (ELLs). In predominantly nonverbal subjects such as physical education, ELLs must be allowed to participate fully and on an equal basis with other students (Minn. Stat. § 125 A.08; Minn. R. 3525.1352; Minn. Stat. 124D.61).
The state provides resources and technical assistance to schools for implementing strategies to align with the Healthy Kids Awards Program but does not specify direct funding mechanisms (Minn. Stat. § 124D.955).
Local districts are encouraged to align physical education programs with broader wellness initiatives to promote student health and activity in alignment with federal regulation. Schools participating in the Healthy Kids Awards Program are rewarded for implementing policies and practices that create opportunities for students to be physically active and make healthy food choices throughout the day (Minn. Stat. § 124D.955, 7 C.F.R. §210.31).
The state regulations do not include requirements for evaluating physical education teachers.
Recent updates emphasize teacher qualifications for APE, the inclusion of recess policies, and promoting physical activity across the curriculum (Minn. Stat. § 120B.026; Minn. R. 8710.5300).
Regulations assign responsibility for physical education policy implementation to Local Education Agencies through curriculum standards and graduation requirements. The regulations include enforcement provisions and oversight by the Minnesota Department of Education through periodic review processes. They do not include specific penalties for noncompliance. Districts must complete an annual assurance of compliance with nondiscrimination under the state’s Assurance of Compliance and Mandated Reporting (Minn. R. 3535.9910).
For more details, call the Minnesota Department of Education at (651) 582–8200, email mde.contactus@state. mn.us, or go to 1500 Highway 36 West, Roseville, MN 55113.