February 2026
Dear Colleagues and Champions of Student Well-Being,
As we reflect on another energizing and impactful state convention, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each one of you. Your presence, your passion, and your commitment to elevating the field of Physical Education continue to inspire the work we do together. This year’s convention reminded me of the incredible power. 
our profession holds—to shape not only skills and habits,
but the very confidence and lifelong well-being of every student we serve.
Throughout the convention I saw shared ideas, innovative strategies,
and heard powerful stories that reinforce my theme to
Ignite, Engage, and guide our students to Succeed by creating environments
where all students feel capable, motivated, and empowered to live active, healthy lives.
Your dedication shines through everything you do, and it is that dedication
that moves our profession forward.
One of the most meaningful themes coming out of this year’s conference is the continued emphasis on physical literacy. As educators, we know physical literacy goes far beyond physical skills—it represents a lifelong journey rooted in confidence, competence, motivation, and understanding.
Physical literacy means:
- Helping students develop the skills needed to move confidently and effectively.
- Creating positive experiences that build joy in movement.
- Fostering motivation so students want to be active—not just today, but throughout their lives.
- Equipping learners with the knowledge to make healthy, informed decisions into adulthood.
As educators, you play a transformative role. Every lesson, every encouragement, every opportunity to try something new reinforces that each child is capable of growth and success. Your belief in them today shapes the way they view wellness tomorrow. When you build physical literacy, you’re not just teaching movement—you’re building resilience, identity, and lifetime habits that ripple far beyond the gymnasium walls.
Our journey does not end with the convention—we carry it into our schools, our communities, and our daily interactions with students. I encourage you for the remainder of this school year to be reenergized, supportive, and proud of the vital work you do.
Together, let’s continue to:
- Advocate for inclusive and meaningful movement experiences
- Model wellness in a way that inspires
- Build relationships grounded in respect, empathy, and empowerment
- Lead our students toward a future where they recognize movement as a lifelong resource
Thank you for all you do. Your influence is immeasurable, and your impact lasts far beyond the school year. I am honored to serve alongside such dedicated and visionary professionals.
Here’s to another year of growth, collaboration, and inspiring the next generation of physically literate, confident, and healthy individuals.
Speaking of next year, we have a date for the 2026 convention: Tuesday, October 27, 2026. Mark your calendars, spread the word and recruit a new member or two!
With gratitude and pride,
Angela Budovsky-Robinson
President, 2025-2026
budobsky-robinson@azhpe.org