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Adapted Physical Education information

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$11K

$62.2K

$112.5K

How much do adapted physical education jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for adapted physical education in the United States is $62,209.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,500.00 and $85,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is adapted physical education?

Adapted Physical Education (APE) is a specially designed physical education program tailored to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. The goal of APE is to ensure that all students, regardless of ability, have access to physical education that promotes physical fitness, motor skills, and social interaction. APE teachers assess students' abilities and create individualized programs that help them participate safely and successfully in physical activities. These programs are often included in a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP) and are required by federal law under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as an adapted physical education teacher?

To thrive as an Adapted Physical Education Teacher, you need a solid background in physical education, understanding of disabilities, and a teaching credential with specialized training in adapted PE. Familiarity with assessment tools, individualized education program (IEP) systems, and adaptive equipment is typically required. Patience, creativity, and strong interpersonal skills help engage students with diverse needs and collaborate with colleagues and families. These skills and qualities are crucial for creating inclusive, effective physical education experiences that promote student growth and participation.

What are common challenges adapted physical education teachers face when creating inclusive lesson plans?

Adapted Physical Education teachers often encounter challenges in designing lesson plans that accommodate a wide range of abilities while keeping all students engaged. Balancing individualized modifications with group activities requires creativity and ongoing assessment. Collaboration with general education teachers, therapists, and families is essential to ensure each student’s needs are met effectively. Additionally, limited resources or equipment can pose obstacles, making adaptability and resourcefulness important traits in this role.

What is the difference between Adapted Physical Education vs Physical Therapist?

AspectAdapted Physical EducationPhysical Therapist
Required CredentialsTeaching certification, adapted PE specializationDoctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), state licensure
Work EnvironmentSchools, educational settingsHospitals, clinics, rehab centers
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, school districtsHealthcare, rehabilitation services
Primary FocusDeveloping physical skills for students with disabilitiesRestoring movement and function for patients

Adapted Physical Education professionals focus on developing physical skills in students with disabilities within educational settings, requiring teaching credentials and specialized training. Physical Therapists work in healthcare environments, helping patients recover movement abilities, with advanced clinical degrees. While both roles involve physical activity and rehabilitation, their settings, credentials, and primary goals differ significantly.

How to get into adapted physical education?

To become an adapted physical education teacher, you typically need a bachelor's degree in physical education or a related field, along with state certification or licensure for teaching students with disabilities. Gaining experience through student teaching or internships and obtaining specialized training or certifications in adaptive or inclusive education can enhance job prospects.

What does an adapted physical education teacher do?

An adapted physical education teacher develops and implements modified physical activity programs for students with disabilities or special needs, ensuring they can participate safely and effectively. They assess students' abilities, adapt activities, and collaborate with other educators and families to support individual development and inclusion in physical education classes.
More about Adapted Physical Education jobs

What cities are hiring for Adapted Physical Education jobs?

Cities with the most Adapted Physical Education job openings:

What states have the most Adapted Physical Education jobs?

States with the most job openings for Adapted Physical Education jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Adapted Physical Education jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Adapted Physical Education jobs are:

Adapted Physical Education jobs near you
Infographic showing various Adapted Physical Education job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $62,209 per year, or $29.9 per hour.

Adapted Physical Education Teacher

Linked Professional Services

Detroit, MI

Contractor

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Adapted Physical Education Teacher

Physical Education for Students with Disabilities (SP)
Employment Type: Long-Term Contract | Year-to-Year Opportunity

Position Summary

We are seeking a dedicated Adapted Physical Education Teacher to provide physical education instruction and support for students with disabilities. The teacher will develop and deliver adapted physical education activities that meet the individual needs, abilities, and goals of students receiving special education services.

This is a long-term contract position with the potential to continue year after year, providing an excellent opportunity for someone looking for stability within a school district environment.

Responsibilities

  • Provide adapted physical education instruction to students with disabilities 
  • Develop and implement physical education activities appropriate for students with varying physical, developmental, and learning needs 
  • Modify physical education activities, equipment, and instructional methods to support student participation and success 
  • Follow student IEPs and individualized educational goals related to physical education and motor development 
  • Monitor and document student progress and performance 
  • Create a safe, inclusive, and supportive physical education environment 
  • Collaborate with special education teachers, general education teachers, therapists, administrators, and support staff 
  • Communicate with school staff and families regarding student progress and participation as appropriate 
  • Use appropriate instructional strategies to encourage student engagement, independence, and physical development 
  • Maintain accurate student and instructional records 
  • Ensure activities and equipment are used safely and appropriately 
  • Support students in developing physical fitness, motor skills, coordination, mobility, and healthy activity habits 
  • Participate in meetings and other school activities as required 
  • Follow district policies, procedures, and applicable special education requirements 

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education, Adapted Physical Education, Special Education, or a related field 
  • Appropriate Michigan teaching certification for Physical Education and/or students with disabilities 
  • Experience working with students with disabilities preferred 
  • Knowledge of adapted physical education instructional strategies 
  • Ability to modify activities and equipment based on individual student needs 
  • Understanding of IEPs and special education practices 
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills 
  • Ability to work effectively with students, families, teachers, therapists, and school administrators 
  • Patient, flexible, and student-focused approach 
  • Ability to create a safe and inclusive learning environment 
  • Strong classroom management and organizational skills 

Position Details

Position: Adapted Physical Education Teacher
Specialty: Physical Education for Students with Disabilities (SP)
Employment Type: Long-Term Contract
Contract: Year-to-Year / Long-Term Opportunity
 

This is a long-term contract opportunity with the potential for continued placement year after year.

Linked, LLC is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We celebrate and embrace differences and are dedicated to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. Our goal is to ensure that every employee and applicant is treated with respect and fairness. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified candidates and are committed to making reasonable accommodations to support diverse needs throughout the hiring process. Linked, LLC is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and is dedicated to fostering a work environment where everyone can thrive.