Question 1

Health

Accepted Answer

1/2 CreditThe emphasis on this course is self-responsibility and choices made result inconsequences. In line with the contemporary attention to individual and group healthproblems, the State Department of Education now mandates that all students have aminimum 1/2 credit in health education which must include the topics of stressmanagement, suicide prevention, nutrition, drugs (including alcohol, tobacco, andsteroids), and disease (including sexually transmitted diseases). The focus of thiscourse will be for students to understand that health and wellness are lifelong andcumulative, and that knowledge translated into positive health practices can extendyouthfulness and postpone aging. The course also stresses principles adaptable toliving life to the fullest extent today, toward accepting oneself, associatingharmoniously with others, and developing an awareness of our physical, social, mental,spiritual, and environmental responsibilities. This course will include individual healthproblems, as well as the health problems facing us as a society and how we can dealwith them. Students understanding the areas of health that affect them today and inthe future are the major objectives of this course.

Question 2

Physical Education

Accepted Answer

1/2 CreditNew York State mandates that all students in high school must take physical educationin order to fulfill the requirements for graduation. At St. Mary’s, students must take two(2) physical education classes per cycle, for 40 weeks, each year. In lieu of PhysicalEducation, Dance Class may be selected and will fulfill the Physical Educationrequirement.

Question 3

Dance

Accepted Answer

1/2 CreditDance is an alternative to traditional gym class. This class was conceived to promote body fitness and emotional well-being using the art of dance. Classes incorporate multiple dance forms that are designed to improve flexibility, body strength, muscle tone, and aerobic endurance. Through participation, students will also develop musicality, become familiar with dance terminology, and receive tips on health and stress management. Dance is available to all grade levels.