My name is Matias Reyes and I am a student at Arrowview Middle School, and like many of my classmates, I have felt the need for a short break during our school day. Currently, our classes are continuous, leaving very little time for a proper rest. This situation not only affects our academic performance but also our overall well-being. Therefore, I propose a 30-minute recess, adjusting the dismissal time to 2:35p.m., to improve the educational experience for all students.

 

Why is this change necessary? First, a 30-minute recess would provide students with much-needed time to relax, socialize, and recharge. A study conducted by the National Institutes of Health found that students who take regular breaks exhibit higher levels of concentration and less fatigue. Furthermore, this extra time would help reduce stress and improve mental health, an increasingly important issue in our school community.

 

 Adjusting the dismissal time to 3:00 p.m. would not only be a positive change for students, but also for teachers, who would have more time to plan their lessons and attend to their personal needs. This small change to the school schedule can make a big difference in the learning environment.

 

I understand that making a change to the school schedule may seem challenging, but the benefits far outweigh any potential drawbacks. I have spoken with many of my colleagues, and most agree that a break would be a valuable addition to our school day. I urge school administrators and the district to seriously consider this proposal, as the well-being of students should always be a priority.

 

If you are an Arrowview native, a student, parent, teacher, or simply someone who cares about the well-being and development of young people in our community, please sign this petition to show our support for this necessary improvement to our school schedule. Let's work together to make Arrowview Middle School a better place to learn and grow! Sign and share this petition to make our voices heard.                                                                                                           But there are going to be exceptions to the rule and these are: 

1. Students with Recent Inappropriate Behavior

If a student received:

Detention

Referral for Misconduct

In-School Suspension (ISS)

…they could miss recess as a result.

2. Students Who Need to Make Up Work or Assignments

If a student is significantly behind on:

Important Assignments

Projects

Work Marked as “Missing Work”

…the teacher might ask them to stay and make up the work.

3. Students Who Need Academic Support

Sometimes some students might stay for:

Mandatory Tutoring

Responsive Tutoring (RTI)

Specialized Support according to their Academic Plan

This would be to help them, not as punishment.

 4. Students Requiring Special Supervision

For example:

Students with medical restrictions

Students who need special attention during certain periods

IEP cases where an alternative structure is recommended

5. Scheduled School Activities

Some students may not be allowed out because they have:

Rehearsals (band, mariachi, orchestra)

Practices

Club meetings

Student council meetings

6. Consequences for Repeated Tardiness

If a student is frequently late, the school may use recess for:

Restorative practices

Conversations with the counselor

Disciplinary warnings