On Thursday April 17th, it was announced that the physical activity component of PE for freshman at Notre Dame would be eliminated and replaced with a seven theme health and wellness course starting with the class of 2019 (http://ndsmcobserver.com/2014/04/p-e-requirements-replaced/). It is shocking that Notre Dame is, to my knowledge, planning on implementing a PE system that does not require physical activity. In addition, the PE Department itself is being dismantled, which has been essential in maintaining the health and well-being of students both past and present. Required physical activity allows students to try new sports (such as squash, racquetball, curling, fencing, ultimate Frisbee etc.), maintain a healthy activity level and interact with students from different dorms. If you do not support the decision to replace physical activity with required orientation-type Health and Wellness programs, I urge you to sign this petition to make your voice heard.