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A passionate educator's journey from PE-avoider to professor reveals powerful lessons about inclusive physical education. Dr. Hillary Glencross candidly shares how she once did everything possible to escape "gym" class – obtaining doctor's notes, hiding in the nurse's office, or sitting on the bleachers – until one persistent high school coach refused to let her disengage. This transformative experience sparked her mission to reimagine physical education as engaging and accessible for all students.

Now a professor at Salem State University preparing the next generation of PE teachers, Dr. Glencross brings real-world expertise from her decade teaching at Watertown High School, including five years focused on adapted physical education. Her work emphasizes universal design for learning and thoughtful modifications to ensure every student can thrive, guided by mentor Dr. John Passerini's philosophy that "nobody's disabled, we're all just differently abled."

Our conversation explores innovative approaches to teacher preparation, including Salem State's three distinct pathways for aspiring PE professionals and their use of technology like SIBME for detailed video feedback. Dr. Glencross takes a refreshingly balanced approach to artificial intelligence, treating it as a valuable pedagogical tool while teaching students to be critical consumers who personalize AI-generated content. "Use AI for 80 percent of your planning, but you've got to take that 20 percent and make it your own," she advises.

Her research interests focus on boosting engagement in physical education, particularly in post-pandemic contexts where students face increased anxiety and technology distractions. As co-chair of MAHPERDS Council of Future Professionals and member of Shape America's Professional Preparation Council, she's building resources to support new teachers entering the field. 

Connect with Dr. Glencross: 

Email: hglencross@salemstate.edu

Website: www.HillaryGlencross.com

Instagram: SSU_PETE

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