Adapted Physical Education
Adapted Physical Education (APE) is specially designed instruction for students ages 3–21 who have disabilities that impact their ability to participate in general physical education.
As required by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), APE ensures access to physical education by modifying activities and providing individualized support.
APE focuses on motor skill development, movement patterns, and participation in sports, dance, and aquatics, tailored to meet each student's needs through their Individualized Education Program (IEP).
Who Does Adapted Physical Education (APE) Serve?
APE serves students who qualify for special education services due to a disability or developmental delay. These students may have motor developmental delays or physical limitations that affect their ability to fully engage in a standard PE setting. The program ensures they can safely and meaningfully participate in physical education alongside their peers.
How Do Adapted Physical Education Programs Serve Students?
APE programs serve students through individualized instruction, activity modifications, and support during general PE classes.
In Jeffco, middle and high school students also have access to an Adapted Athletics program, which includes inclusive and modified sports like basketball, soccer, volleyball, flag football, and softball.
These games are designed to be shorter, include breaks, and emphasize safety, inclusion, and teamwork. Outside of school, families are encouraged to explore recreational opportunities offered through Colorado organizations.
Adapted Physical Education Resources
Organizations for Students
- National Sports Center for the Disabled
- Adaptive Sports Center: Crested Butte, CO
- Colorado School for the Deaf and Blind Athletics
Recreational Programs for Students
- Adam’s Camp
- American Diabetes Association - Camp Colorado
- Aspen Camp for Deaf and Hard of Hearing
- Children’s Hospital of Colorado Physical Therapy and Rehab Summer Camps
- Children’s Hospital of Colorado Camp and Scholarship Resources for Kids with Cancer and Cancer Survivors
- Children’s Hospital of Colorado Cleft Lip and Palate Program - Camp
- Colorado Junior Wheelchair Sports Camp
- Colorado Lions Camp
- Easter Seals
- Sky High Hope Camp
- United States Association of Blind Athletes (USABA)
There are a variety of camps, recreational programs, outdoor recreation and other resources for students with special needs across the state. While Jeffco Schools doesn’t endorse any of these specific programs, we encourage you to visit the websites, request a brochure and find the one that best suits your child’s needs. Many locations offer scholarship assistance and year-round programs.
Contact Us
Special Education
Special Education Community Support Line: 303-982-6682
Child Find Intake: 303-982-7247
Records Request: spedrecords@jeffco.k12.co.us