Feb. 24--Dozens of students from Bartlett High School's Science, Engineering and Technology Academy told the School District U46 board Monday night that their academic futures are in peril because they weren't granted waivers from physical education classes.
Student after student asked why only one waiver was granted for next year. Several said their time and potential acceptance into Ivy League schools could better be served by taking another class instead of the required PE.
"Why are students who want to challenge themselves being held back?" asked student Dhruti Desai. Being forced to take gym, she said, "only makes us less competitive."
District CEO Tony Sanders said denial of the waivers was due to state law. Students must be able to demonstrate that not taking a certain class when they are taking gym would exclude them from admission to a college.
"This is a state of Illinois issue, not a U46 issue," Sanders said.
At one point, several parents began speaking over the board, causing President Donna Smith to note they were out of order. One parent threatened legal action over the denials.
Student Amritha Kumar said the requirement would make more sense if she'd been taught about a healthy lifestyle in previous gym classes.
"I have not learned anything beneficial for my future," Kumar said.
U46 requires seven semesters of physical education for high schoolers, according to the district's website.
Exemptions are considered for juniors and seniors enrolled in full year graduation requirements who have not previously failed PE, according to the district.
Student Kayla Filipek said she needs a variety of classes to be competitive for top-tier colleges. She said she also swims 22 hours a week and is headed for Olympic trials this summer.
"Needless to say, I'm very physically fit," she said.
Student Perav Shah said taking gym over the summer for six weeks was not an option for those who plan to work or already have other activities penciled in.
Sanders and the board expressed sympathy for the students' plight. Sanders said some sort of event would be scheduled "to ensure their voices are heard."
Board member Sue Kerr asked staff to contact the Regional Office of Education and the Illinois Board of Education.
Sanders said the PE waiver has been an issue "for years," and that the district is audited by the regional office to ensure compliance.
Board Vice President Traci O'Neal Ellis said if there is any wiggle room, the district should interpret the law liberally.
Board member Jeanette Ward chided the law as an example of "top-down legislation," and encouraged students to contact legislators.
geoffz@tribpub.com
