To assess the relationship between the training/preparation of physical education teachers and their perceived instructional confidence levels across major topic areas established by the Illinois State Board of Education as critical content areas. In total, 283 individuals participated and were included in the data analysis. The participants surveyed were currently enrolled or recently graduated from physical education or kinesiology departments at (1) the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, (2) Illinois State University, and (3) Eastern Illinois University. Data were collected via in-person and email surveys using the HECS 18 item survey instrument. Analysis demonstrated a statistically significant difference exists between the perceived instructional confidence of current students and recent graduates regarding major health topic areas. Further work with this population is required to determine if the results seen in the state of Illinois are consistent. The next proposed sample area will be the state of Colorado and its three main Universities (University of Colorado, Colorado State University, Metropolitan State University of Denver) and their health and physical educators (HPE).