LIMA, OHIO -
First grade students at Freedom elementary are learning to dribble a soccer ball with correct form.
"You're supposed to keep the ball in your feet, the middle of your feet. So, you can do this," said Kansas Mayes, first grade student, as she shuffled her feet side to side.
Skills such as dribbling a ball will now be evaluated throughout a child's education. The mandate is part of a law signed in 2010 and goes into effect this school year.
Physical education teacher Jackie Fields supports the new standards because the mandate places renewed importance on the lessons taught during gym class.
'Now we actually have a program in place where we can show growth in the Phys. Ed. Department," said Fields.
Since students in this class are in the first grade, they're just practicing the skills. However, they'll actually be tested in the second grade. The testing will continue every few years until they graduate.
"I have to assess them and give them a grade. So, they're graded on advanced, proficient, or limited. So, they can get a three, two or one.
Six year old Tavaris Williams doesn't mind practicing his soccer skills.
"I want to get a good grade," said Williams.
Teachers will keep track of those grades and turn them into the Ohio Department of Education. The combined scores will be recorded on a district's annual report card. Teachers will also be evaluated on their effectiveness based on those scores.
Many state mandates have waiver's attached to them-- meaning schools can ask not to participate. However, this mandate is being required of all schools in the state. Fields believes the reason is improving a child's overall health.
"I think a lot has to do with the obesity crisis," said Fields.
Besides dribbling the students have also practiced skills like skipping and jumping. Later in the year they'll focus on skills such as balance, dance, and rhythm.
The new requirements are part of the Healthy Choices for Healthy Children Act. The law also regulates the items offered in school vending machines and calls for more nutritious school lunches.
