Professional responsibility in physical education goes far beyond lesson planning and classroom management. It’s about actively investing in your growth, advocating for your program, and contributing to the strength of the profession as a whole. For Arizona educators, one of the most meaningful ways to do this is by engaging with your state organization—Arizona Health and Physical Education (AZHPE)—and participating in its annual convention.
Being a member of AZHPE and even extending that membership to the national level through SHAPE America (https://www.shapeamerica.org/), is more than just a line on your résumé. It’s a commitment to advocacy. It’s a statement that you believe physical education matters—not just for fitness, but for the whole child. Unfortunately, there are still decision-makers who don’t see it that way. Some administrators continue to prioritize increased seat time in tested subjects, believing it’s the primary path to higher scores and improved school ratings. That’s where we come in.
As professionals, it is our responsibility to educate and advocate using evidence. Research consistently shows that physical activity supports far more than physical health. Increased activity levels are linked to reductions in disruptive behavior, lower absenteeism, and even improved academic performance. These are outcomes schools care deeply about—and they’re directly influenced by what happens in our gyms and on our fields.
But let’s be honest: unstructured time like recess, while valuable, isn’t enough. Students need to be taught how to move, how to engage, and how to build confidence in physical activity. That’s the role of quality, effective physical education. Done well, it develops physically literate individuals—students who have the competence, confidence, and motivation to stay active for life.
This is why attending the AZHPE state convention is so important. It’s not just another conference—it is the most relevant, targeted professional development available for physical educators in Arizona. When you attend, you earn 8 hours of CEUs toward your recertification. But those hours represent far more than a requirement—they represent growth. You’ll gain access to innovative teaching strategies, fresh game ideas, and hands-on opportunities to try out new equipment that you can immediately bring back to your program. Just as importantly, you’ll connect with like-minded professionals from across the state. These conversations—sharing successes, challenges, and ideas—are often just as impactful as the sessions themselves.
I also recognize that we are approaching the end of the school year—a time when schedules are full, energy is low, and the last thing many of us want to think about is something happening next fall. But this is actually the perfect time to act. If you take just a few minutes to talk with your administration today about attending the AZHPE Convention in October, you’ll have a much better chance of getting that purchase order approved before budgets tighten or priorities shift.
Early bird registration is open now through September 1, after which prices will increase. Planning ahead not only saves money but also ensures you secure your spot at the most impactful professional development event for our field in Arizona.
For more information, visit www.azhpe.org/state, or reach out directly:
- President Angie Budovsky-Robinson: budovsky-robinson@azhpe.org
- Executive Director Jennifer Houston: houston@azhpe.org
Membership and participation strengthen our collective voice. The more united we are as a profession, the more effectively we can advocate for policies, funding, and recognition that support quality physical education for every student.
Professional responsibility means staying informed, staying connected, and staying committed. Joining AZHPE, participating in SHAPE America, and attending your state convention are not extras—they are essential steps in being the kind of educator our students and our profession deserve.
Check out the highlights from last year’s convention here: 2025 Convention Highlights
Your presence matters. Your voice matters. And your commitment to growth and advocacy can help shape the future of physical education in Arizona. And don’t forget to nominate a colleague or administrator for this year’s awards night happening on Monday, October 26th at the Historic Irving School in Mesa, with a reception to follow. Nominations are due TODAY, Friday May 1st so check out the link today: https://www.azhpe.org/awards/ and recognize the greatness!
Can’t wait to see you in October!
Sincerely,
YOUR AZHPE Board!