Implement Recess Periods in Middle Schools

The Issue

As someone deeply passionate about recess, I understand the immense benefits it carries for growing kids. I remember how enthusiastically I used to wait for that free period during my early school days, and to my dismay, these treasured times were taken away when I transitioned into middle school. It is not just my personal nostalgia that asks for reintroduction of recess in middle schools, but also a wealth of scientific evidence backing this idea.

The American Academy of Pediatrics states that "recess serves as a necessary break from the rigors of concentrated, academic challenges” and provides cognitive, social, emotional, and physical benefits that may not be achieved in the classroom setting. Yet, this crucial part of children's well-being is overlooked in many middle schools, robbing students of a much-needed respite and an opportunity for free play.

The CDC affirms that students who are physically active tend to have better grades, school attendance, cognitive performance, and classroom participation. Recess, as an important playground for physical activities, can work wonders for our children's overall performance and development.

Therefore, we urge educators, parents, school authorities, and policymakers to consider this earnest appeal to reintroduce recess periods in middle schools. We believe that this initiative will not just make the school day more enjoyable for these youngsters, but also significantly contribute to their holistic development. Let's prioritize our children's health and happiness - sign this petition to bring back recess in middle schools.

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The Issue

As someone deeply passionate about recess, I understand the immense benefits it carries for growing kids. I remember how enthusiastically I used to wait for that free period during my early school days, and to my dismay, these treasured times were taken away when I transitioned into middle school. It is not just my personal nostalgia that asks for reintroduction of recess in middle schools, but also a wealth of scientific evidence backing this idea.

The American Academy of Pediatrics states that "recess serves as a necessary break from the rigors of concentrated, academic challenges” and provides cognitive, social, emotional, and physical benefits that may not be achieved in the classroom setting. Yet, this crucial part of children's well-being is overlooked in many middle schools, robbing students of a much-needed respite and an opportunity for free play.

The CDC affirms that students who are physically active tend to have better grades, school attendance, cognitive performance, and classroom participation. Recess, as an important playground for physical activities, can work wonders for our children's overall performance and development.

Therefore, we urge educators, parents, school authorities, and policymakers to consider this earnest appeal to reintroduce recess periods in middle schools. We believe that this initiative will not just make the school day more enjoyable for these youngsters, but also significantly contribute to their holistic development. Let's prioritize our children's health and happiness - sign this petition to bring back recess in middle schools.

The Decision Makers

Julie Pickren
Texas State Board of Education - District 7
Bryce Benson
Highland Park Independent School Board (Dallas County) - Place 3
Jae Ellis
Former Highland Park Independent School Board (Dallas County) - Place 4

Supporter Voices

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Petition created on February 4, 2025