Email: karafinney@sbsd.net

About Coach Kara: 

Hi! I’m Coach Kara, and I’ve had a lifelong passion for sports and physical activity—whether as a participant, spectator, coach, student, or teacher. I was born and raised in Hummelstown, Pennsylvania, and moved to sunny San Diego in 2009. I now live in Pacific Beach with my fiancé Kevin, our daughter Fiona, and our sweet cat Pumpkin.

Since the 2018–2019 school year, I’ve proudly served as the Adapted Physical Education (A.P.E.) teacher for the Solana Beach School District, supporting preschool through 6th grade students at all school sites. In my free time, I love staying active, spending time with my family and friends, going to the beach, traveling, crafting, and enjoying live music.

My Philosophy: 

As an Adapted Physical Education teacher, my goal is to deliver age-appropriate, standards-based instruction that is thoughtfully adapted to meet each student’s unique needs and goals.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned throughout my teaching journey is that every student has different abilities and walks their own path to success. My mission is to help each student discover their path by fostering confidence, celebrating progress, and building lifelong physical activity skills and healthy habits.

By using a variety of teaching strategies and creating inclusive, supportive learning environments, I strive to ensure that every student can grow, move, and thrive—each in their own way.

Adapted PE Wish List

Links:

• Physical Education Framework for California Public Schools
• National Physical Education Standards
• Adapted Physical Education Guidelines In California Schools
• A Parent Guide to Understanding The CA Physical Fitness Test and FITNESSGRAM

Adapted Sports & Recreation Opportunities Within the Community:

• Special Needs Resource Foundation of San Diego
• The Miracle League of San Diego
• Top Soccer
• Challenged Athletes Foundation
• Shine Project Foundation
• United States Adaptive Recreation Center
• Surfing Madonna
• The Joy Connection - Programs & Events
• REINS (Riding Emphasizing Individual Needs and Strengths)
• Ivey Ranch Park Association
• Wheelchair Dancers Organization
• Special Olympics Southern California
• Therapeutic Recreation Services