PE requirement

CINDY SKINNER, Kennewick

I have two children in the Kamiakin marching band, and I would like to add to Brett Matheson's recent letter. In addition to all the work the marching band kids put into their shows, they also do 30 minutes of stretches, calisthenics and running before they hit the field.

To say that marching band does not meet the requirements of a PE class is ridiculous. I propose the Kennewick School Board come out and spend a Saturday on the field with the marching band and see how exhausted they are at the end of the day.

If our kids do not want to do PE in school, they can test out of it. That test is designed for the athlete. Not everyone is gifted with athletic ability.

We make sure our kids get several hours a week of exercise. Between visiting the gym, marching band, dance classes and family bike rides, we believe they are kept reasonably active.

Our nation is failing in math and science, yet I had to tell my daughter she could not take chemistry because she has to take PE.

I propose school board readdress the PE issue. If parents can prove their children are getting adequate exercise, then waive it.

My kids are not lazy. They would rather take additional academic classes.

This story was originally published September 30, 2012 at 12:00 AM with the headline "PE requirement ."