Although state policy does not specify a universal cap for the number of students per class or teacher-to-student ratio in physical education classes, the Missouri School Improvement Program resource standards (separate from law) permit high school physical education classes up to 45 with appropriate supervision/facilities (MSIP-5 R-4[5]).
The curriculum must align with Missouri’s standards and emphasize fitness, motor skills, and the development of lifelong physical activity habits. Instruction must include MVPA and address a minimum of two hours of mental health awareness training (5 CSR 20–200.275[1]-[2], §170.307[1]-[3]).
It is not specifically stated that students may be excused from physical education or substitute other activities to meet physical education requirements. Local school boards may, however, allow variances and alternatives to high school graduation requirements through officially adopted policies. This option may include, but does not specifically name, physical education courses (5 CSR 20–100.190[5]).
Elementary schools must provide at least one 20-minute recess daily, which may be incorporated into the lunch period. There is no explicit language in state regulation dictating that physical activity should not be withheld as a form of punishment (MO Rev. Stat. § 167.720).
Schools must conduct fitness assessments for students in Grades 5, 7, and 9, measuring aerobic capacity, muscular strength, endurance, and flexibility. Results are used to recognize student achievement in fitness goals (5 CSR 20–200.290[2]–[3]).
Districts employing seven directors, 30 or more teachers, and a supervisor of physical education (SPE) or supervisor of health may raise funds to provide facilities, equipment, and supplies for physical education (MO Rev. Stat. § 170.041).
Regulations do not explicitly mention online physical education, but they include indirect provisions that may allow students to complete physical education through approved alternative courses under Missouri’s Course Access program or local district policy (5 CSR 20–100.190[5]).
Physical education teachers must hold a valid Missouri teaching certificate with endorsements in physical education. Teacher training institutions are required to provide courses in first aid and CPR training (5 CSR 20–400.550[9]; MO Rev. Stat. §174.125[1]-[2]).
Adapted physical education must be provided for students with disabilities as specified in their IEP. Schools must ensure equitable access to physical education programs for all students (MO Rev. Stat. § 167.720).
Funding may be raised or expended through local school districts that employ seven directors, of which one must be a physical education director, and 30 teachers or more (MO Rev. Stat. § 170.041).
School districts are encouraged to integrate physical activity and wellness initiatives into their local wellness policies in accordance with federal regulations for schools participating in the National School Lunch/School Breakfast Program (7 C.F.R. §210.31).
For school boards employing a SPE under the direction of the superintendent of schools of the district, shall supervise the teaching of all subjects related to physical education and the physical well-being of the children under their charge (MO Rev. Stat. 168.171).
Recent updates include the integration of mental health awareness training into the physical education curriculum (new in 2022) and the emphasis on CPR training (new in 2017/2018) for high school students (5 CSR 20–200.275; MO Rev. Stat. § 170.310).
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 school boards and the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. They do not include specific penalties for noncompliance.
For more details, call the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education at (573) 751–4212, email info@dese.mo.gov, or go to 205 Jefferson Street, Jefferson City, MO 65101.