A Review of Adapted Physical Education Information on State Department of Education Websites within the United States and its Territories

Authors

  • Adam S. Forbes Norfolk State University
  • Matthew K. Lowery University of Virginia
  • Fabián Arroyo-Rojas Hofstra University
  • Seungyeon Park Norfolk State University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/PALAESTRA-2025-V40-I1-13551

Abstract

In the United States, adapted physical education (APE) is a required service within a student’s special education. However, this can be misunderstood and misinterpreted amongst various stakeholders such as parents or administrators. One possible resource that stakeholders may use to learn about APE services is on State Department of Education (SDOE) websites. Currently, it is unclear what information is included on each website. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to identify and examine APE information included within SDOE websites in the U.S. and its territories. Utilizing a two-phase search protocol, out of the 56 SDOE websites, only 17 included a clear definition of APE with special education requirements and service eligibility. With limited APE information on SDOE websites, professionals should be proactive in advocating at the state level to increase the value, worth, knowledge of APE amongst stakeholders that can benefit the wellbeing of students with disabilities.

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Published

2026-03-19

Issue

Vol. 40 No. 1 (2026)

Section

Feature Articles

License

Sagamore Publishing LLC (hereinafter the “Copyright Owner”)

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