Nurturing the Body and Mind of Special Class Students

[Financial News] The Dongjak-Gwanak Education Support Office under the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education is operating a rehabilitation sports program for special class students in middle schools, the first of its kind in Seoul.
This rehabilitation sports program aims to enhance students' confidence and promote balanced physical development through positive physical activity experiences for students with disabilities. It is also expected to strengthen the lifelong learning network between schools and the community by linking with lifelong education cooperation institutions and expanding customized lifelong education opportunities tailored to the characteristics and needs of people with disabilities.
According to the Dongjak-Gwanak Education Support Office on the 21st, the 'Strength UP! Balance UP! Youth Rehabilitation Sports Program' supports the healthy growth of students eligible for special education in cooperation with the Seoul Boramae Hospital Seoul Southern Region Disabled Health and Medical Center.
This program is the first project promoted in Seoul. Professional instructors from the National Rehabilitation Center's Exercise Rehabilitation Department participate directly. It is scheduled to be operated for 33 students in special classes at three middle schools, including Namseoul Middle School, Nanwoo Middle School, and Jangseung Middle School, from July to September 2025. The first class started on July 4th at Namseoul Middle School, and a total of two classes have been successfully conducted so far.
The program consists of integrated physical activities such as basic stretching and strength exercises using small tools, and various group games and activities to develop coordination, leading to active participation from students.
Students from Namseoul Middle School who participated in the second class expressed satisfaction with the program, saying, "The time spent running and moving with friends was very enjoyable." Participating teachers also evaluated, "Students who were initially unfamiliar are gradually participating actively in activities," and "This program is fostering both emotional stability and physical confidence in students."
The Dongjak-Gwanak Education Support Office plans to sequentially operate the program at Nanwoo Middle School and Jangseung Middle School until September, and aims to further increase student participation through customized classes that consider the characteristics of each school.
Kim Younghwa, head of the Dongjak-Gwanak Education Office, stated, "The core of this program is to provide students with disabilities with positive physical activity experiences to build confidence and support healthy growth," adding, "We will continue to expand lifelong education opportunities for students eligible for special education through cooperation between schools and the community."  

monarch@fnnews.com Kim Mangi Reporter