While the 2026-2027 school year is approaching, student-athletes at Kinnelon High School will now have the opportunity to be exempt from gym class during their sports season under a new school policy. This change was confirmed at a Student Council Executive Board meeting on May 15. 

Staff members say the change is intended to recognize the physical pressure already placed on athletes, while giving students greater flexibility in their academic schedules. The decision has created a discussion among students and parents about balancing athletics, academics, and equal expectations for all students.

Physical education teacher James Soules explained that the effects of the policy are still unknown because the exemption has never been offered before. “We have no idea how many students will opt out,” Soules said. 

Although lower enrollment could lead to fewer class offerings and possible staff reductions depending on participation numbers, Soules also believes P.E. still provides many important benefits for students, including teamwork, overcoming challenges, and socializing with classmates freely.

Many student-athletes believe the exemption is a positive change because it would give them more flexibility in their schedules and help them balance athletics and academics better.  “Athletes spend so much time practicing and playing games/competing after school, so having that extra time during the school day would help manage work with stress,” cheerleading and track athlete Sophia Moussa said. She added that having a study in her schedule would allow her to focus on the more rigorous classes she will take in her junior year.

Moussa also believes the exemption could improve academic performance for student athletes. Many athletes may miss class time for games, practices, and travel, which often makes fitting in time for schoolwork difficult. By replacing P.E. with a study block, students may have better opportunities to strengthen their knowledge and grades in many of their subjects. “It would help students stay more motivated in school because they can get stuff done in a more effective time frame,” Moussa said.

In addition, soccer and lacrosse player Anica Maskimov shared similar thoughts about the exemption. She explained that athletes often have very demanding schedules and are unable to miss sports very often.

Maskimov also pointed out that athletes already spend numerous hours being physically active outside of gym class. Between the practices, conditioning, games, and some club athletics, many athletes feel that they have already exceeded the physical demands of P.E. classes. Instead, she believes the extra time could help students focus on their studies and growth for the future.

Although opinions on the exemptions may vary, most KHS students play at least one sport, and student-athletes can benefit from the P.E. exemption. Teachers are still cautious of how the change could impact PE programs and the class schedule, while students are excited for the new opportunity in hopes of having a more flexible schedule to help them succeed academically and physically.