At Rowe Elementary School, physical education teacher Rene Custeau does much more than teach the basics of physical education. Custeau creates opportunities for students to be engaged and excited while overcoming challenges and having fun.

One of his colleagues, Rowe art teacher Jean Rank, wrote this appreciation of all that Custeau does to engage students in physical activities and build community:

“In addition to teaching PE classes to grades PreK-5, Mr. Custeau has created a yearly program called Recess Runners, which takes place during students' recess. Rene prints a unique QR code for each student that is worn on a lanyard while running or walking laps around our field. Parent and community volunteers help participants scan their QR code using an iPad to record each lap and record the total distance each student moves. A few runners have already logged over 10 miles. It is not unusual for some to log a marathon (over 26 miles)! Inside Rowe School, a bulletin board celebrates each participant for their efforts. Kids are so proud to share their accomplishments with our school community.

In addition, Mr. Custeau organizes our yearly walkathon, a celebration of fitness and community that involves every student on a special day just before cold weather sets in. During the walkathon, all Rowe students walk or run a one-mile lap near our school. Families volunteer to walk, scan QR codes and cheer kids on as they enjoy time in nature, building physical strength and community engagement.

Mr. Custeau rarely sits down, but when he does you can find him writing grants for new, engaging equipment for sports, innovative games and physical challenges that promote excitement for PE throughout our school. He collaborates with Rippleffect to ensure all Rowe students have the opportunity to experience the climbing wall and ropes course adjacent to our school.

It is inspiring to watch as Mr. Custeau supports even the most reluctant participants to expand their comfort zone and try new things. Apprehension gives way to pride and joy as Mr. Custeau encourages every Rowe student to collaborate with diverse peers, try a new sport or physical challenge while learning to enjoy nature and all the life-long benefits of physical fitness. The entire Rowe community is so fortunate to have Mr. Custeau on our team!”

Photo: A Rowe student participates in a sponge relay race at a field day at Rowe Elementary School on June 11, 2024. PE teacher Rene Custeau organized the fun, water-themed field day to cap off the 2023-2024 school year at Rowe.