This fall, Grayslake Central High School, Life Fitness Department Chair, John David, will be honored by the Northeastern District of the Illinois Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (NED IAHPERD) for securing a grant that’s already making a big impact on students.
The award funded two new sets of 9 Square in the Air—a fast-paced, high-energy game that blends elements of volleyball and four square. Played on an elevated 3x3 grid, students work to keep the ball moving as they rotate between squares. The goal? Advance to the center and stay there as long as possible. With three full sets now available at Central, an entire class of 27 students can be active at the same time.
“It is fast-paced, so even when someone gets knocked out, they have a short wait to get back in,” David explained. “After attending a national convention and seeing this game played, I knew it would be a great addition to our curriculum and something students of all skill levels would enjoy.”
The grant is about more than just a new game—it’s about expanding access to movement, variety, and joy in physical education. That’s especially important in high school, where students are forming lifelong habits and discovering how wellness fits into their everyday lives.
“I am always on the lookout to increase the activities and opportunities we give our students, and grants are a great way to supplement that,” said David. “Our school year can be long, and equipment is expensive. Having as much equipment as possible allows us to offer a plethora of games for our students. The more options, the better.”
And it’s not just about physical fitness. Research shows that movement breaks throughout the school day can help students reset mentally, reduce stress, improve attention and memory, and deepen social connection through shared experiences. At a time when students are balancing busy schedules and digital demands, space to move and have fun is more valuable than ever.
The application process, he said, took just over an hour—including a rationale, PE standards alignment, and implementation plan. The longest part? Waiting for a vendor quote that would match the budget.
“Whenever I receive a grant, I am so excited because again, I know our students are going to enjoy the activities,” David said. “The ability to add such equipment without it impacting the budget is huge because most of that other money is earmarked for repairs, maintenance, and replenishment.”
He’ll be officially recognized at the NED IAHPERD Banquet this October—a celebration of educators who are innovating in health and PE. But the day-to-day reward is already clear in the energy inside the gym.
“Our Life Fitness team at Grayslake Central values high engagement and participation from our students, and they are just ecstatic to be able to provide these opportunities,” David said. “Don’t be surprised if you see one of them jump into a game and show their skills!”