Physical exercise helps release stress, which students desperately need. We need to allow time for students to have that relief with longer recess times of 30 minutes, not 20. By the time students get to the playground, they have only have 10 to 15 minutes to play before going back inside. The Dual Language School, which does not have their own playground and must walk to Gilmore, have even less playtime. Recess is where they can engage in unstructured creative play. They learn from each other and have time to truly socialize as well, creating friendships that can also support their mental health.
Physical space also needs to be considered in Physical wellness. Students need to feel safe in our schools. They need to know that they will not be harmed physically by their peers, and if they are, there is transparent accountability.