“PE is one of the most important parts of a students' education,” says Tim Downen, physical-education teacher and Army National Guardsman. “It builds a foundation for life.”

At Herrin Elementary School, the sound of sneakers on hardwood is more than background noise — it’s the rhythm of growth, resilience, and teamwork. In a world where so much time is spent on screens, Downen believes in the transformative power of movement.

Now in his 11th year of teaching and his 14th year of military service, he says the two callings share a common thread. “The Army teaches you discipline, teamwork, and how to adapt under pressure,” he explains. “Those same lessons work in the gym. PE isn’t just about fitness; it’s about shaping the whole person.”

Together with his co-teacher Matt Snell, who has spent decades in the district, Downen leads one of Herrin’s most engaging programs — a mix of movement, mindfulness, and fun. “We want every student to find something they enjoy,” he says. “That’s the key to lifelong fitness.”

On any given week, students might be playing basketball, practicing yoga, or tackling the school’s signature Challenge Day courses — a favorite that blends teamwork, agility, and problem-solving. Downen says, “ We fill the gym with various stations: shuttle runs, balancing on one foot on a wood post, running laps, push-ups, and timed dribbling/shooting challenges. With timers and counters at every station, the kids are given a sheet to document their scores. They go absolutely crazy, competing with friends and focusing intently on getting their personal best scores for the full 30 minutes!”

Downen continues, “We implement this activity at the beginning and end of every year so students have concrete data to see their amazing improvements. I'm amazed every year by what these kids are capable of—we see students daily doing over a thousand step-ups, hula-hooping for 30 minutes without stopping, or running 70 laps in 30 minutes. It is truly impressive to watch.“It’s amazing to watch fifth graders focus through a yoga routine,” Downen says. “Then they get to capture the flag or basketball, and you see them light up.”

His students agree. Abram Jolliff calls PE “the only time, except recess, when you can really get your energy out.” Finn Mazanek adds, “After PE, I can focus better in class.” Jolee Matuszczak, who plays softball outside school, says it keeps her “conditioned and strong,” while Amara Stortzum loves the variety: “We get to do stuff we want when we have Challenge Day. It’s always different.”

That variety is deliberate. “We teach them that movement isn’t punishment,” Downen says. “It’s freedom. When students realize that exercise helps them feel better — not just physically but mentally — it’s a game changer.”

He sees the same values in the Guard and the gym: service, responsibility, and teamwork. “In the military, we rely on each other completely,” he says. “In PE, it’s the same — you build trust, you push each other, you show up.”

Outside school, Downen still serves with the Illinois Army National Guard, balancing drill weekends, community service, and family life. He credits Herrin for its strong support of veterans. “This town understands what it means to serve,” he says. “It’s the perfect size — big enough to offer opportunity, but it still has that small town feel.”

Back in the gym, as students line up for relay races, Downen watches with quiet pride. “If we do this right,” he says, “these kids will grow up valuing their health, knowing how to work with others, and believing they can do hard things. That’s what we’re really teaching — strength that lasts.”

And in Herrin, that kind of strength runs deep — measured not just in muscle, but in heart.