Since at least 2009, and affirmed in 2015, the AZ Dept of Ed Physical Education standards prohibit the withdrawal of recess to punish classroom behavior or for make up work. However, last night the Board adopted the Superintendent's policy to ban only "whole class" punishment, in conflict with the evidence-based state standard. We've repeatedly asked why the District is rejecting the state standard, but there has been no response. Pictured here today, at least eight (8) Madison second graders sat on posts during their only recess, watching their peers move and play. Nationally, studies indicate this is a punishment that is ineffective, harmful, and that disproportionately impacts poor and/or minorities.