Introduction

Abstract

Among the most important contributions of sport, physical activity and physical education is the personal and social development of children and youth (SHAPE America Standard 4) that can result when teachers, coaches, activity leaders and organizations commit to that as a priority. Don Hellison and his seminal approach, Teaching for Personal and Social Responsibility through sport and physical activity (TPSR) have forged an important connection among a wide variety of professionals by providing theory, practical ways of thinking, and down-to-earth strategies for doing this work with children and youth of all backgrounds in schools and camps, out of school sport and activity programs, and community development programs. The articles in this feature describe how different kinds of professionals collaborate through the TPSR Alliance to share their work, address issues, identify solutions and stay informed. For JOPERD readers, this feature addresses ongoing work on personal and social development through sport and activity from the perspectives of different kinds of physical education professionals, with a special focus on how a particular community of practice, the TPSR Alliance, works to assist and inspire the work of each professional.