Provide individualized physical education instruction or services to children, youth, or adults with exceptional physical needs due to gross motor developmental delays or other impairments.
KnowledgeDesign individualized physical education programs for students with gross motor developmental delays or exceptional physical needs, integrating assessment data and therapeutic principles.
Proficient
Hands-onDemonstrate adapted physical activities and movement patterns using specialized equipment such as balance beams, medicine balls, and exercise bands to model proper technique for students with diverse abilities.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate social perceptiveness and active listening skills when establishing rapport with students, families, and interdisciplinary team members to foster inclusive learning environments.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate student motor performance and progress toward IEP goals through ongoing monitoring and assessment in educational and therapeutic settings, ensuring compliance with special education standards.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply learning strategies and instructional modifications tailored to individual cognitive and physical abilities, using evidence-based pedagogical approaches.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for inclusive physical education practices and accessibility accommodations within school systems and community recreation programs, balancing educational mandates with student-centered care.
Proficient
KnowledgeDevelop collaborative service plans and instructional objectives in consultation with occupational therapists, physical therapists, and special education teachers to coordinate interdisciplinary interventions.
Proficient
KnowledgeAnalyze student behavioral and developmental information utilizing psychology and motor learning principles to identify root causes of performance challenges and adjust intervention strategies.
Proficient
KnowledgeCompose progress reports, IEP documentation, and communication records using student record software and Microsoft Office applications to maintain compliance with education and legal requirements.
Proficient
Hands-onExecute physical support and handling techniques to assist students with mobility impairments during adapted sports and recreation activities, following safety protocols.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate adaptive sports equipment and assistive technology including electric wheelchairs, beeper balls, and flotation devices to facilitate safe participation in physical activities.
Developing
MindsetSupport student motivation, self-efficacy, and positive body image through encouragement and developmentally appropriate feedback in one-on-one and group settings.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Adapted Physical Education Specialists (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
39,350
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $43,220. 25th percentile: U.S. $53,470. 50th percentile: U.S. $67,430. 75th percentile: U.S. $87,890. 90th percentile: U.S. $109,360. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$43,220
10% of workers earn the following or more
$109,360
Workers on average earn
$74,180
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Education and Training4.5/5
Psychology3.9/5
English Language3.5/5
Therapy and Counseling3.1/5
Customer and Personal Service3.1/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
