NASPE has learned from our friends at the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association (SGMA) that $75.655 million in PEP (Physical Education Program) grants will be awarded this calendar year (2008).  That's almost $3 million more than was distributed in 2007.  NASPE will post information on our website about the PEP grants as soon as it is released.  www.aahperd.org/naspe .

Since the initial PEP grants in 2001, more than $400 million in PEP grants have been awarded to school districts and community based organizations.  PEP funds have successfully enhanced K-12 physical education and community based organizations' physical activity programs across the country.  PEP grants are used for professional development training; the addition of new technology such as heart-rate monitors and pedometers; and the acquisition of innovative P.E. equipment such as elliptical machines, treadmills, rock climbing walls and stationary bikes.

When children are given access to PEP-backed P.E. programs in schools, there are many beneficial side effects such as increased academic performance, lower absenteeism in schools, reduced childhood obesity rates, fewer instances of disruptive behavior, and more attentive students in the classroom.

Since the PEP Bill was passed by Congress in 2001, more than 1,000 PEP grants have been awarded across the country.  In Fiscal Year 2001, the PEP Bill was approved for $5 million.  In FY 2002, Congress allotted $50 million; $60 million in FY 2003; $70 million in FY 2004; $73.4 million in FY 2005; $72.7 million in FY 2006; and $72.7 million in FY 2007.