Lakeside Elementary Brings the Olympic Spirit to Gym Classes
Lakeside’s physical education department recently transformed the gymnasium into a global arena, weaving the excitement and values of the Olympic Games into a dynamic two-week instructional unit for students in the upper grades.
The Olympic unit began with students watching video clips from the real Olympic Games, introducing them to the traditions, competition, and international spirit that define the global event. From there, physical education teachers adapted Olympic-inspired competitions into engaging relay-style activities using standard PE equipment, ensuring each student could participate safely, inclusively, and in a developmentally appropriate way.
Led by physical education teachers Ken Corrao, Jennifer La Commare and Zach Goldstein, the unit officially kicked off with a torch run, culminating in the ceremonial lighting of the Olympic Flame - a moment that set the tone for two weeks of teamwork, cooperation, and friendly competition.
Eight countries were represented, with teams of five or six students assigned to each nation. Throughout the unit, students competed in five featured Winter Olympic events: Speed Skating, Bobsled, Skeleton, Luge, and Hockey. Each activity was adapted to emphasize skill development, collaboration, and strategic thinking while maintaining the excitement of Olympic-style competition.
“The children focus on teamwork, cooperation, and respect for each other,” said Ken Corrao, a Lakeside physical education teacher. “The sportsmanship that they have shown was just unbelievable.”
Beyond physical skill-building, the Lakeside Winter Olympics highlighted character development and community spirit. Students cheered enthusiastically for their teammates and fellow Olympians, embodying the true Olympic ideals of unity and respect. Working together toward common goals strengthened bonds across grade levels and reinforced the importance of encouragement, perseverance, and shared achievement.
