Students and staff members from the Long Beach Public Schools’ elementary buildings let their positive energy and strength shine during Virtual Field Day on May 8, when they got moving for an assortment of activities organized by the Physical Education Department. Participants converged in spirit as they took on challenges developed by physical education teachers. 

Games and exercises supported staying at home and involved household items that were easily accessible. They included paper plane corn hole, a towel flip challenge, scavenger hunts, sports skills, a jumping contest, laundry ball, wind bowling and obstacle courses, among other activities. Families were also encouraged to use the Physical Education App for fitness ideas and creativity was incorporated in the form of field day posters and slogans that students developed. 

The Athletics page presented a compilation of videos that set the stage for an eventful day. Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jennifer Gallagher and her daughters led the Pledge of Allegiance and an opening ceremony featured physical education teachers in a “pass the torch” series. Faculty members demonstrated the field day activities and Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Paul Romanelli congratulated participants in a culminating segment. 

Many of those involved enjoyed visiting the Athletics page as well as the Long Beach Elementary Schools Virtual Field Day Facebook page, where hundreds of photographs and videos were shared, to see how others in the district were celebrating. 

“Field Day is an important tradition and a significant day for our elementary students and staff,” said Director of Physical Education, Health and Athletics Arnold Epstein. “I am proud of the enthusiasm that was shared for our virtual event and thank everyone who submitted photos and videos. Students got to see their friends and teachers, which helps them look forward to the future when they can be together again at school.”