The University of South Florida’s Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) program offers free weekly physical education classes to K–5 homeschool students in the Tampa Bay area. Now in its third year, the program provides homeschooled children with a structured environment to learn and play sports. It also gives USF’s physical education majors practical teaching experience.
Nancy Walters, a former educator and homeschool parent, says the PETE program adds to her son Cooper’s education. She teaches academic subjects at home but uses the program to help Cooper participate in sports such as baseball and golf. The classes take place every Wednesday at the USF Recreation Center. Each semester, ten USF students lead the sessions, gaining experience outside the traditional classroom.
The PETE program uses three teaching models: Tactical Games, Sport Education, and Adventure Education. These models focus on athletic skills, strategic thinking, teamwork, and leadership. Children may take on roles like referees or equipment managers, which helps them develop different skills and confidence…