***Kendall Vincent is a participant of The Kewanee Voice Student Journalism Program, funded by the Harry Anderson Memorial Trust.
Wethersfield Elementary students are gliding, spinning and laughing their way through one of their favorite physical education units — roller-skating.
The skating program has been a staple in the school’s PE curriculum for decades, bringing with it joy to students while also teaching balance, coordination and confidence on wheels.
The roller-skating unit has been a long-standing tradition at Wethersfield, dating back to the mid-1990s. Former PE teacher Nicole Fairman recalls how she first introduced the unit to students.
“I think I started [the roller-skating unit] my second or third year there. Probably 1995,” Fairman said. “We skated in the high school gym for several years until the Junior High Gym was done. Dave Lapan was at the high school then. It was one of my favorites but most stressful units. I never wanted anybody to get hurt.”
One of the reasons the roller-skating unit is so anticipated is its timing —always held right after spring break. The scheduling makes the skating unit a transition back into school after the break, and the activity motivates the students often prompting them ask what days they have PE so they can anticipate their next skating session.
Current PE teacher Pat Keane also recognizes the value of the roller-skating unit.
“I knew the students really enjoyed skating and skating helps with muscle strength, balance and coordination. Skating also helps with cardio fitness,” Keane said.
Despite the challenges of ensuring student safety, the roller-skating unit has continued to be a highlight of the school year. Students look forward to lacing up their skates and rolling onto the gym floor, where they practice basic skating techniques, participate in fun activities and even challenge themselves.
Some of the favorite activities include skating under the limbo bar and freely gliding around the gym while music plays.
Wethersfield Elementary also invites family members to come and watch their children skate. Parents, grandparents, siblings and other loved ones are welcomed into the gym to see students in action and cheer them on as they navigate the skating floor.
This family-friendly aspect allows students to showcase their skills and share the fun with those who support them.
The love for this unit extends beyond elementary school. One senior even said, “Skating was one of my favorite parts of PE class and elementary school in general.”
A 2013 Wethersfield alumna also recalled her fond memories of skating with friends during PE, emphasizing how much fun and camaraderie the unit brought to students throughout the years.
Teachers and students alike praise the unit for its unique ability to engage all skill levels. Whether a student is a seasoned skater or stepping onto wheels for the first time, the program provides a safe and supportive environment for everyone to learn and enjoy.
Whether it’s their first time on skates or their fifth, Wethersfield students will no doubt keep rolling across the gym floor for years to come.
