One local group is pushing to make recess mandatory in Duval County Public Schools. The state requires 150 minutes of physical education each week for students in grades K-5.
The group “Recess of Duval County Public Schools” led by Elizabeth Ross, is pushing for 100 minutes of recess or free play a week, on top of physical education classes.
“We went to orientation for first grade. The teacher told us there is no recess this year. And I looked at my husband and said 'since when do 6-year-olds not get recess?' So I started to do some research,” said Elizabeth Ross.
A study from Stanford University says recess helps kids feel more engaged, safe, and positive about the school day. Ross says she was encouraged by what she heard during a Duval County School Board committee meeting this week.
“What I heard first and foremost, is our board members understand recess is important," said Ross.
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But there is still a ways to go. Action News Jax asked Superintendent Dr. Nikolai Vitti why recess isn’t mandatory. He said it is encouraged but not required.
"I believe recess can help math, reading and science achievement. I think the challenge is, as I've been saying, is to to find a balance in the schedule that's already very tight," said Vitti.
Vitti said the question would be what do you take off the plate?
“To add more recess, or free play and unstructured play, something would need to come off,” he said.
Ross and her group of supporters say there is a way to fit it all in and it’s time to take a good hard look at students' schedule.
If you want to sign Ross's petition, click here.
Cox Media Group
