WHPE Update December, 2024

WHPE President- Sandee Ortiz

First Serve: A Season of Giving

Greetings WHPE Members-

As we approach the holiday season, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the theme I’ve chosen for this year: First Serve. In health and physical education, we talk about serving others through teamwork, cooperation, and leadership. But what better time than December to focus on serving in the most meaningful ways — by helping those in need.

The holiday season is a time when many people find themselves struggling, whether due to financial hardship, food insecurity, or simply being isolated. As individuals, we have the power to make a real difference by stepping up and offering our time, resources, and kindness to those around us. Whether it’s volunteering at a local food pantry, serving meals at a community shelter, or donating to a cause you believe in, First Serve takes on a whole new meaning when we turn our attention to others.

The simple act of serving others is not only an opportunity to help those in need but also a chance to grow personally. It teaches us the value of gratitude, empathy, and the importance of community. It’s a reminder that the greatest gifts we can give are often the simplest — our time, our hands, and our hearts.

This December, I encourage you to make service a priority. Whether you are helping to prepare or deliver meals, donating clothing or toys, or simply reaching out to someone who might be feeling alone, your actions can spread warmth and kindness during this season.

Together, let’s make First Serve not just a theme but a way of life, especially as we close out the year. The impact we can have on others — whether through a meal, a helping hand, or a listening ear — is powerful. As we step into the new year, let’s remember that serving others is not just a seasonal effort, but a year-round commitment to creating stronger, more compassionate communities.

Wishing you a joyful, meaningful, and service-filled holiday season!

Sandee Ortiz

WHPE President

sortiz@sunprairieschools.org

Take Action!

Save the date for 2025 WHPE Convention

October 29th, 30th, and 31st at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells.

Now is the time to start thinking ahead and having conversations with your administration about the value of attending professional development opportunities. Share how these experiences will help you grow as an educator, enhance your teaching strategies, and ultimately serve your students better.

Lastly, consider the power of First Serve in the professional development world by presenting at the convention! Whether you present a session by yourself or collaborate with a colleague. Take this opportunity to serve your peers by sharing your knowledge and expertise at the WHPE Convention.

2025 Awards Nominations

At WHPE, we are proud to celebrate the outstanding contributions of individuals in the field of health and physical education. Each year, we honor those who have gone above and beyond with a special award recognizing their dedication and impact.

Nominations are now open for the 2025 WHPE Awards! The deadline to submit a nomination is February 1, 2025. http://whpe.us/awards

Newsletter Submissions!

December 15 is the deadline for submissions to the Winter Newsletter. The effectiveness of the newsletter is amplified by submissions from any member. What are you doing that other members would benefit by knowing? Sharing your ideas help make others better teachers and ultimately enhances the lives of the youth in the state. Send your submission to Nicole Popowich at npopowich@uwlax.edu

SPEAK OUT DAY: Feb 25-26

For more than a decade, SHAPE America has worked to build relationships on Capitol Hill and establish a strong voice for our profession, which has led to more federal support and funding for health and physical education programs. Why were we able to achieve these successes? Because our voices are stronger together.

With a new Presidential Administration taking office and a new session of Congress beginning in January 2025, it is more important than ever to build relationships with Congress and advocate in-person.

Register Today!

Deadline February 4

Limited funding is available to help offset the cost of attendee travel to SPEAK Out! Day. To apply for a SPEAK Out! Day travel scholarship, please complete the application linked below.

Travel Scholarship

Deadline January 21. Applicants will be notified by January 28.

Please contact Carly Wright at cwright@shapeamerica.org with any questions.

SHAPE NATIONAL CONVENTION BALTIMORE 2025

Each year, the SHAPE America National Convention & Expo brings together the health and physical education community for five days of professional development, networking and collaboration.

This event is more than just a convention. It’s an unparalleled experience where you’ll make true connections with:

Dedicated health and PE teachers;
Higher ed faculty/researchers;
Future HPE professionals; and
Administrators and district/state coordinators.

Make plans now to join us at #SHAPEBaltimore. Thousands of your peers will be there, and everyone is ready to share their knowledge … their resources … and their passion for the profession with you.

7 Places You Can't Miss This Winter in Wisconsin!

1. Snow Tubing at Cascade

A great activity for the whole family, Cascade Mountain in Portage offers up a 900' chute to glide down on a tube. Fear not: there's no need to walk back up the hill. Hop on the magic carpet ride back to the top, with tube in tow. Between runs, sip on rich hot chocolate by the outdoor firepit for extra special moments spent together.

2. Watch An Exciting Sled Dog Race

See something impressive and adorable at the same time in Gleason, home of the annual Doris Lovrine Memorial Sled Dog Race. There's also skijoring (skiers pulled by dogs), kiddie and celebrity races at this special event. Grab a spot on the sidelines where you and the little ones can marvel at 100 mushers and their dog teams rushing by.

3. Snowshoe Nine Mile

Slip on the snowshoes and hit the trails with your crew at Nine Mile Forest in Wausau for a heavily wooded blend of snowy, scenic views. A 4-mile trail is also available if you're looking for a shorter trek. Snowshoeing side-by-side with friends is our recipe for great winter memories.

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4. Ice Fish Lake Winnebago

The largest inland lake in Wisconsin is home to a variety of species like walleye, perch, white bass and sturgeon, making it a prime spot for ice fishing. The lake sturgeon population here is rated as one of the finest in the country. Celebrate the big fish with a visit to the Sturgeon Spectacular, Fond du Lac’s 3-day winter festival in February that includes a snow-sculpting competition, tasty treats and a toasty bonfire.

5. Ice Skating at The Edgewater

Right in the heart of Madison is a prime ice skating spot along the shores of Lake Mendota. The Edgewater's 4000-square-foot ice rink also sits in the shadow of the State Capitol, so the views while skating hand-in-hand are extraordinary. Grab a slice of pizza and hot cocoa from the Slicehouse for the perfect winter outing.

6. Board a Snow Train

Wisconsin is home to many snow trains, all with their unique and exemplary twists. The East Troy Railroad Museum, for example, hosts holiday train rides in December that bring you and your crew to The Elegant Farmer for visits with Santa and seasonal treats. Purchase tickets in advance for your family, then enjoy getting into the holiday spirit while riding through a Wisconsin winter wonderland on toasty heated seats.

7. Explore Illuminated Ice Castles

This annual spectacle in Lake Geneva is a frozen landscape made by hand from over 10,000 icicles formed into caves, fountains, slides, crawl spaces and other breathtaking formations. Bring a sled and pull a friend through the passageways lit up by colorful LED lights or coordinate your visit with the sunset for a natural glow. After, you and your crew can warm up at one of the many fires with a perfect cup of hot cocoa. Find more tips on making the most of your ice castle adventure.

Bonus: Be Mystified by the Ice Caves

Explore an ice cave this winter — fingers crossed. If conditions permit them to be accessible by foot, it's a truly mystifying experience. That’s why we love visiting the Apostle Island National Lakeshore even in the heart of winter.

If the ice isn't walkable, you and your crew can still enjoy the frozen beauty along miles of mainland hiking trails along the lakeshore. The cold won’t take your breath away if you’re bundled up, but Mother Nature’s artistry will. Be sure to keep an eye on the ever-changing winter conditions of the caves, and hope for a freeze over this year!

Ready for refreshing winter fun? Check trail conditions and know before you go with the Wisconsin Snow Report.