The Partner PE: No Limits Grant

Impact: Grades 6th through 12th at DHS and MMS  (Special Needs students and General Education students participating in PE classes)  

Empowering every student to move, play, and thrive — without limits.

The Partner PE program at Decatur Middle School and Decatur High School provides an inclusive physical education experience where special needs students are partnered with general education peers to participate in a variety of physical activities. This program promotes teamwork, empathy, social interaction, and physical fitness for all students involved. It allows students to learn from one another, build meaningful relationships, and develop a stronger sense of community within our schools. Currently, the Partner PE department faces a significant challenge due to a lack of adequate and adaptive equipment. Many of our special needs students require modified or specialized tools to fully engage in physical activities safely and effectively. Our general education partners also benefit from having access to diverse, high-quality equipment that allows for creative, inclusive, and cooperative activities. Unfortunately, the limited resources available restrict the types of activities we can offer, which in turn limits participation and the overall success of the program. The equipment currently used in Partner PE consists mainly of hand-me-down items from our elementary and secondary PE programs. Over the ten years that Partner PE has been offered, the program has not received a designated budget to purchase new or adaptive materials specifically for our students. As a result, much of what we use is outdated, limited in variety, or not designed for inclusive activities. This grant will provide the necessary funding to purchase new and adaptive PE equipment designed to meet the needs of all students, regardless of ability level. Equipment such as lightweight balls, balance items, sensory-friendly materials, and inclusive team game sets will allow Partner PE classes to expand activity options, increase engagement, and ensure every student has the opportunity to participate meaningfully. By supporting this grant, you are helping us create an equitable, engaging, and supportive physical education environment where every student — both special needs and general education — can experience success, connection, and joy through movement.