Programs Overview | Flynn Elementary | Leadership Project | Gloria R. Davis Middle School

Why PE at Flynn?
    
Glowworms physical education program is currently in its second year at Leonard Flynn Elementary School in the Mission District of San Francisco. There are about 440 students enrolled at Flynn, and the school's curriculum focuses on reading, writing, math, science, and social studies; however, the current budget does not provide for a physical education teacher.

Overall, Flynn's students' academic scores rank well below the state average. In recent years, however, the school's diverse efforts to improve the quality of education have led to increased student performance in most areas. Still, the school's budget is insufficient to finance any instruction in physical education, art, or music. These are areas in which elementary school students can develop confidence, enthusiasm, and diverse skills that can be applied to their academic studies. Experiences in these areas broaden children's perspectives and strengthen the foundations on which young students learn, grow, and meet new challenges. In particular, physical education gives children an opportunity to challenge themselves, make decisions and experience the results, and push their boundaries in a friendly environment.

Recently, students at Flynn have shown improvement in their academic performance, highlighted by overall improved math scores. Fourth-grade students' writing scores increased by 50%. The school offers several opportunities for parent involvement as well as programs geared toward helping students' reading and social skills. Student performance at Flynn is still well below average, but it is improving. A comprehensive physical education program will complement the school's enhanced efforts to increase student performance, improve the quality of student life, and help students grow personally through a richer scholastic experience.

If you would like to contribute to The Glowworms Education Foundation's fund for a physical education teacher at Flynn Elementary School, please see the information in our donating section.