Alumni Success Stories
"The year I was involved in the Adapted Physical Education (APE) endorsement program through Kent State was 2015-2016. This program completely prepared me to teach students with disabilities. I was fortunate enough to get hired in an Adapted Physical Education position, as I worked within the Kent State APE endorsement program. This program 100% helped me prepare and apply the knowledge taught as I worked through my first year of teaching APE. The Kent State program not only taught me how to understand students with disabilities, but also helped develop highly effective lessons and assessment strategies, as well as the IEP writing process."
I highly recommend this program to anyone wanting to further their education, and earn A.P.E. endorsement.
Susie K. Thompson, APE Teacher, Columbus Public Schools
"Before entering Kent State’s Physical Education program, I had heard that it was a highly reputable program. After completing the program, I now know why its reputation is so strong and highly regarded.
The faculty in the PE program do not only hold the deepest level of knowledge in physical education, but they also have a passion that is impossible to ignore.
Though I learned how to write detailed and effective lessons plans and my content knowledge increased during my graduate education, I do not believe that is what made my Kent State experience special. It was the faculty and how they are not concerned with fitting their students into a mold. Instead, they encouraged me to find my identity as a teacher. They met me where I was in my personal journey which, in turn, helped me develop the path to my teacher journey. Because of their never-ending knowledge, support, and encouragement, I am confident in who I am as both a teacher and a person. Deciding to apply to the PE program was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I am proud to be a graduate of Kent State."
Laura Russell, M.Ed. student 2018
"I chose to attend Kent State University because of its reputation as one of the nation's top physical education programs. Kent State's program prepared me for a career in education by teaching me the skills necessary to succeed. The professors at Kent State are second to none, and their expertise and guidance helped me to make a smooth transition into my current position as an Elementary Physical Education Teacher in the Plain Local Schools in Canton, Ohio. Kent State's program is truly a family, and the networking and resources that you gain will lead you to a successful career in education!”
Kent Hamilton, B.A. ’10, Plain Local School District | 2018 OAHPERD Young Professional of the Year
"Kent State University was the perfect choice for me! When I started college, I was not sure what was necessary to teach physical education. I just knew that is what I wanted to do. Kent State provided the tools, knowledge and experiences to become a quality physical educator. The curriculum was and continues to be innovative, providing the knowledge to be successful from the start. The teaching staff is passionate and caring. They motivate their students to be the best and provide resources and experiences to help each student meet with success.
The best part of the physical education program at Kent State is the community.
Long after graduation, Kent State physical education teachers stay connected. Connected to lifelong learning, sharing their knowledge and ideas with each other, undergraduate students, and the greater physical education community. I am forever grateful for choosing Kent State to begin my career!"
Kathy Casper, B.A. ’81, Copley Fairlawn City Schools | 2018 OAHPERD Elementary Physical Education Teacher of the Year