Health & Wellness

Middle School Physical Education

One of the beliefs of the Braintree Public Schools is that all students should have the knowledge, skills, and motivation to achieve a physically active lifestyle. At the middle school level, this is a great opportunity to instill these beliefs in our students.

One of our goals is for the students to become competent movers in a variety of team, dual, and individual sports. Lifetime fitness activities including yoga, weight training, golf, and running are also included to give students insight on activities they can use as they outgrow team sports after high school. Learning about the importance of a healthy diet and the benefits of living a physically active lifestyle are other goals of the program. 

It is hoped that as a result of the middle school physical education experience, students will develop a positive attitude toward a lifetime of being physically active and understand and appreciate the importance of good sportsmanship.

Physical education is required for all three years of middle school.

6th Grade Health

The 6th-grade health education course meets three times per cycle for half the year. This course is aligned with the National Health Standards and the Massachusetts Health Curriculum Framework and is taught using a skills-based approach. 

When skills are combined with functional health information, students have both the knowledge and the ability to apply this knowledge, to make healthy choices in all areas of their lives (physical, mental/emotional, and social).

Throughout this course, the following skills, which are based on the National Health Education Standards, will be discussed: 

• Accessing valid information

• Analyzing Influences

• Decision making

• Goal setting

• Interpersonal communication

• Self-Management and advocacy

The health content areas include:

• Body systems

• Fitness

• Nutrition

• Personal health

• Positive peer relationships

• Self-esteem

• Tobacco, alcohol and other drugs

Parents/guardians who do not wish to have their student enrolled in health education must notify the Principal’s office in writing during the programming cycle.

7th Grade Health

The 7th grade health education course meets three times per cycle for half the year. The curriculum is aligned with the National Health Education Standards and the Massachusetts Health Curriculum Framework and is taught using a skills-based approach. 

This course provides students with the knowledge and skills needed to make healthy choices, responsible decisions, maintain positive attitudes and healthy bodies. 

The health content areas include:

• Alcohol and other drugs

• Conflict resolution

• Disease prevention

• Hygiene

• Mental and emotional wellness

• Nutrition and fitness

• Personal health

• Personal safety

• Violence prevention

Parents/guardians who do not wish to have their student enrolled in health education must notify the Principal’s office in writing during the programming cycle.