A new bill in Oklahoma could make sure school kids get at least 30 minutes of recess each day. The bill, House Bill 1493, is moving through the legislature and could soon become law. If passed, it would apply to students from pre-kindergarten through fifth grade, ensuring they get a break during the school day to play and relax.
Representative Jacob Rosecrants pushes for more recess time in schools
Representative Jacob Rosecrants (D-Norman) is behind the bill. He strongly believes recess is not just extra time but an essential part of a child’s school day. He has spoken with many people across the state, and they overwhelmingly agree with him. Rosecrants shared that he has seen firsthand how little recess some schools provide and wants to change that.
Before becoming a lawmaker, Rosecrants worked as a middle school teacher. He taught social studies starting in 2012 and was surprised by how little focus schools placed on recess. When he was elected in 2017, he made it a priority to pass this bill. However, his first two attempts failed. He remained persistent, adjusting the bill to gain more support.
Administrators still question the need for this bill
This year, Rosecrants says the bill is facing less pushback than before. He had to make some changes, such as reducing the required recess time from 40 minutes to 30 minutes and focusing only on younger students instead of including middle schoolers. Some school administrators still have concerns about fitting recess into the school day. However, Rosecrants does not believe this should be an issue. “For 30 minutes of recess?” he questioned, arguing that there should be enough time in the schedule for children to take a break.
Parents support the bill
Many parents believe kids should have time to take a break from learning and enjoy some playtime. One mother, Kori-Lin Dieter, expressed her support for the bill. She believes recess is necessary for all children. “Everybody deserves a break from their day,” she said. She is happy that her son gets time outside to unwind. She also pointed out that recess helps kids burn off energy so they are not overly active when they come home from school.
News 9 asked people on social media what they thought about the bill. Most of the responses were positive, with many people agreeing that 30 minutes of recess is a good start. Some even suggested that kids should have more than 30 minutes of recess each day. The general consensus was that recess is essential for children’s well-being and learning.
Other states have passed similar laws
Oklahoma is not the only state considering a law to require recess. Several states, including California, Illinois, and Washington, have already passed similar laws. These states require schools to provide recess as part of the school day. Other states, such as Georgia, Louisiana, and Missouri, also have laws about recess. However, they do not specify that children must have at least 30 minutes of break time.
Oklahoma schools have different recess policies
News 9 contacted various school districts in Oklahoma to find out how they currently handle recess. The results show that most schools already provide some recess time, but the length varies.
Deer Creek Schools ensure students get at least 30 Minutes of recess each day
All students from pre-K to fifth grade currently get at least 30 minutes of recess every day. If the bill passes, their policy will already meet the new requirement.
Edmond public schools offer 25 minutes
Pre-K through fifth-grade students in Edmond schools get at least 25 minutes of recess per day. Middle school students only receive 10 to 15 minutes of break time, which is significantly less.
Guthrie public schools and mid-del schools have not yet shared their recess policies
These two school districts have not provided information on their current recess policies. It is unclear whether they already offer 30 minutes of recess or if they will need to adjust their schedules if the bill passes.
Moore schools currently provide 25 minutes of recess for elementary students. If the bill passes, they may need to add an extra five minutes to meet the requirement.
Mustang public schools offer 25 to 30 minutes of recess
Pre-K through sixth-grade students in Mustang schools receive between 25 and 30 minutes of recess each day. The exact amount depends on their grade level and weather conditions.
Norman public schools offer 25 minutes
Norman schools give elementary students 25 minutes of recess daily. Some schools also provide extra playtime for kindergarteners and first graders, which can range from 15 to 20 additional minutes. Middle and high school students do not get recess.
Oklahoma City public schools require at least 20 minutes of recess
Students from pre-K through fourth grade get a minimum of 20 minutes of recess each day. They also have at least 60 minutes of physical education per week. Some schools may offer more recess time at their discretion.
Putnam City schools meet the 30-minute requirement
Students from pre-K through fifth grade in Putnam City schools already receive at least 30 minutes of recess every day. If the bill passes, their policy will not need to change.
Yukon public schools provide a minimum of 25 minutes
Students from pre-K through eighth grade in Yukon schools receive at least 25 minutes of recess daily. If the bill becomes law, they may need to add five more minutes to their daily schedule.
The bill continues moving through the Oklahoma legislature
The bill is still being reviewed in the Oklahoma legislature. If it passes, all schools will have to provide at least 30 minutes of recess for younger students. Supporters hope that lawmakers will recognize the importance of playtime for children’s health and development. If approved, the law will ensure that all young students in Oklahoma get a daily break to relax and recharge during their school day.
