The National Consortium for Physical Education for Individuals with Disabilities: Strengths and Concerns

The mission of the National Consortium for Physical Education for Individuals with Disabilities (NCPEID) is to promote, stimulate, and encourage legislative mandates, professional preparation, advocacy, and research in physical activity, physical education, and recreation for individuals with disabilities (www.ncpeid.org). NCPEID has significant historical, current, and future impact on shaping the direction of physical education and physical activity for individuals with disabilities. It was founded in 1975 with the vision of quality personnel preparation, research/demonstration, and service related to adapted physical activity. A 29-question online NCPEID Membership Survey was designed to focus on NCPEID members' beliefs, subjective norms, and intentions toward their membership within NCPEID, as well as their attendance of the annual NCPEID conference. There were 69 participants that completed the survey. Descriptive stats were analyzed, and results indicated the main reasons to engage in NCPEID membership included the Adapted Physical Education National Standards exam, subscription to the academic journal Palaestra, access to resources, and advocacy. Important improvement and consideration recommendations for NCPEID included updating resources, expanding virtual conference opportunities, and establishing a mentorship program. To continue to shape the direction of physical activity for individuals with disabilities, NCPEID should consider these recommendations to best benefit the membership and profession.