The President's Challenge encourages students to make staying active part of their everyday lives by recognizing their achievements in physical fitness. And that includes students with special needs.

With a little consideration and flexibility, any student can qualify for any of the President's Challenge programs. Making accommodations is consistent with the goal of motivating students for lifelong physical activity by recognizing their achievements.

Using their professional judgment, qualified instructors, may qualify students who do not reach PCPFS standards in a given program. We recommend the following guidelines:

1. Review the individual's records to identify medical, orthopedic, or other health problems which should be considered prior to participation in physical activities including physical fitness testing.

2. Determine whether the individual has a disability or other problem that adversely affects performance on one or more test items.

3. Consider whether the individual has been participating in an appropriate physical fitness program that develops and maintains cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, and body composition.

4. Administer the President's Challenge program, making modifications as needed or substituting alternate events or activities.

5. After completing the program, decide if the individual has performed at a level equivalent to a President's Challenge award.

If you have questions about these guidelines, you can call us toll-free at 800-258-8146.