DUSD’s Dyar earns state award
A Delano Union School District educator and administrator has received a state award for outstanding leadership and significant contributions in the areas of health, physical education and recreation.
Director of Physical Education and After School Programs Kenneth Dyar was honored by the California Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance with the 2022 Clark Hetherington Honor Award during the association’s 2022 CAHPERD Conference held March 3-5.
“You are to be commended for your commitment and dedication to promoting health lifestyles through leadership and collaboration in the education community,” CAHPERD president William Potter stated in Dyar’s acceptance letter.
The award was named for Hetherington, who was a physical education administrator at the university, state and national level in the 1900s through 1920s. He was the first superintendent of physical education with the California Department of Education from 1917 to 1921, who approached physical education through natural activity and wholesome living.
Dyar, who has been a member of CAHPERD since 1987, said the award was humbling. He states that the organization has a spirit of support for all members.
“The award means the world to me,” he said. “It is very meaningful.”
Dyar has high expectations for all of Delano’s students in all aspects of their lives, not just academically. He grew up in Delano, giving him a common background with DUSD students. He teaches, leads and works in his home community.
“The health and success of Delano’s youth are the prizes that drive me,” he said in his application for the award.
Dyar stated that while other
districts have cut or reduced physical education instruction, DUSD has expanded PE and is committed to a “PE4All” philosophy.
“I am grateful to Delano Union School District for the program that has been built for Delano’s students,” Dyar said. “I love the environment in which I work.”