Adaptive Physical Education Teacher (APE)

If your child qualifies to receive special education services in the school setting, a related service that may be appropriate for your child, would be the services of an adapted physical education (APE) teacher. The APE teacher is a specially licensed physical education teacher who knows how to develop modifications and accommodations so that your child can fully participate in a range of physical education activities safely. They are knowledgeable about disabilities impacting physical conditions, gross motor skills (large muscle movements), and fitness related assistive technology (AT; AT is addressed in another section of this guide). An APE teacher may also work with an occupational therapist (OT), physical therapist (PT), a teacher of students with visual impairments (TVI), and family members, if needed, to ensure your child’s eye and eyewear are safe. For example, children who are blind or visually impaired may benefit from wearing safety goggles or eye glass tethers. Safety goggles can protect a child’s vision if there is a collision with balls, other students, or gym equipment. Eye glass tethers are pieces of string which can be attached to the ear hook of glasses. Similar to a lanyard, to prevent eyewear from falling off during physical activity. You can ask your doctor for physical education recommendations to ensure safe participation in physical activity based on your child’s unique needs.

For more information about APE teachers,
see What is Adapted Physical Education.