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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a comprehensive school physical activity program?

A comprehensive school physical activity program (CSPAP) is a multi-component approach by which school districts and schools use all opportunities for students to be physically active throughout the school day. A CSPAP reflects strong coordination and synergy across all of the components: physical education as the foundation, physical activity before, during, and after school, staff involvement, and family and community engagement.

Is there any kind of guidance for how to develop, implement, and evaluate a comprehensive school physical activity program?

Yes, CDC and SHAPE America collaborated to develop Comprehensive School Physical Activity Programs: A Guide for Schools, a free guide which provides schools with the guidance necessary to develop, implement, and evaluate a program in your school. This CSPAP website also provides resources to guide you through each step and provides resources to help you implement your program.

Why should my school implement a comprehensive school physical activity program?

Despite national guidelines for physical activity, many children and adolescents are not physically active on a regular basis. Over 95% of youth are enrolled in school, and the school day traditionally provides a sedentary setting away from home. Adding physical activity during the school day can reduce the sedentary nature of classrooms and enhance academic performance. Find out more reasons why your school will be benefited from a comprehensive school physical activity program.

How does a school develop a comprehensive school physical activity program?

To get started, download Comprehensive School Physical Activity Programs: A Guide for Schools to learn more about the components of a CSPAP, read about the steps to develop the program, and use the guide to help you through each step. You can also follow the step-by-step instruction to build your own comprehensive school physical activity program.

Who can support me as I develop a comprehensive school physical activity program?

There are a number of national programs that provide guidance and technical assistance for implementing CSPAP in schools. Our National Programs page links you to the program that meets your needs.

What kinds of resources are available to help me plan and support my comprehensive school physical activity program?

In addition to the guide for schools, SHAPE America has gathered resources to support each area of CSPAP for both policy and research information, and resources with ideas for activating your students and staff. Visit the resources page and scroll through to find the category for which you need information and guidance.

How can I find professional development to help me learn more about a CSPAP?

Shape America and CDC all offer professional development for different components of CSPAP. To find the program that meets your needs, visit the professional development opportunities available to you and learn more about each.

How can I connect with other schools in my state that are implementing comprehensive school physical activity programs?

SHAPE America provides several ways to connect to school champions in your state who are working with comprehensive school physical activity programs.