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Bill

Bill

S 6858

Provides for daily recess for elementary students

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Rachel May and 5 co-sponsors

Bill S 6858 mandates 30 minutes of daily recess for K-5 students, promoting physical activity and social skills while enhancing overall educational outcomes.

PRINT NUMBER 6858A
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Bill Summary · S 6858

Summary of Bill S 6858: Daily Recess for Elementary Students

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 6858 aims to establish a mandate for daily recess for elementary school students across the state. The primary intent of the bill is to promote physical activity, improve student well-being, and enhance overall educational outcomes by ensuring that children have regular opportunities for unstructured play during the school day.

Key Provisions

  • Daily Recess Requirement: The bill stipulates that all elementary schools must provide a minimum of 30 minutes of recess each school day for students in grades K-5.
  • Scheduling Flexibility: Schools will have the flexibility to determine the timing of recess, whether it occurs before, during, or after lunch, as long as the daily requirement is met.
  • Exemptions: The bill allows for exemptions in cases of inclement weather or other extraordinary circumstances that may prevent outdoor play.
  • Guidance for Implementation: The bill encourages schools to develop guidelines that promote safe and inclusive play environments during recess.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Students: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are elementary school students, who will gain access to daily recess, promoting physical health and social skills.
  • Schools: Elementary schools will need to adapt their schedules and resources to accommodate the new recess requirement.
  • Educators: Teachers and school staff will play a crucial role in supervising recess and ensuring a safe environment for students.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced Date: The bill was introduced on March 25, 2025.
  • Current Status: As of now, the bill has been referred to the Education Committee for further consideration and discussion.
  • Companion Bill: There is a related bill, A 6939, which serves as a companion measure in the Assembly, indicating a broader legislative interest in this issue.

Conclusion

Bill S 6858 seeks to enhance the educational experience of elementary students by mandating daily recess. By ensuring that children have time for physical activity and play, the bill aims to foster healthier, more engaged learners. The ongoing discussions in the Education Committee will determine the bill's future and potential implementation across schools in the state.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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