John R. Passarini
Wayland Public Schools
Wayland, MA

"When children lack the ability or opportunity to play, their learning is severely compromised. I craft the learning environment by modifying the tempo and speed of an activity, by reducing the size of the play area, by modifying rules, by promoting teamwork, and by developing strategic action plans. I help my students build a strong foundation of active play skills, joyful memories, and successful movement experiences."

"John almost intuitively creates a physical and emotional environment that allows children and adolescents with disabilities to see themselves as truly able participants in health-enhancing games and sports, and as developing athletes. He uses himself as a powerful instructional tool - everything from the twinkle in his eye to his patient advocacy in creating and sustaining opportunities for genuine participation for his students in community recreational activities."

John works with students from 3 to 21 years of age who have a wide range of disabilities. "By understanding my students' unique learning styles, and by developing innovative and unique teaching techniques, I am able to effectively shape the play environment. Through the use of methods like creating fantasy game characters, I make the 'work' of learning motor and fitness skills a successful and fun experience." John's adapted physical education program provides a foundation for learning and performing psychomotor skills. He enables students with disabilities to successfully participate in age-appropriate play, movement programs, recreation activities, sports, and physical fitness activities.

Other Highlights:

• Uses "reverse mainstreaming" with his special needs students inviting other kids to join the group to help form friendships
• "Going the Extra Mile" Award, Massachusetts Federation of the Council for Exceptional Children, 2001
• Adapted Physical Education National Teacher of the Year, American Association for Active Lifestyles and Fitness and the Adapted Physical Activity Council, an Association of AAHPERD, 2000
• Exceptional Professional for May, Exceptional Parent Magazine, 2000
• Amelia Riou Massachusetts Adapted PE Teacher of the Year, MAHPERD, 1999
• Initiated & supervised the Waltham HS Chapter of Students Against Drunk Driving, 1983-86
• Awarded a Community Therapeutic Recreation Grant to complete 32 graduate credits and a G.A.G.S. Degree, Boston University, 1986
• Ed.D. in Special Education
• Co-Director & group leader: Lexington Attention Deficit Disorder Parent Support Group, 1986-88
• Board of Directors member, Lexington Youth Soccer, 1986-87
• Fitness Consultant, 1983-Present