DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. — The DeKalb County School Board voted to approve a standard 30-minute recess for elementary school students.
Parents have been advocating for the change following their public outcry in August when the district reduced recess to 15 minutes. They voiced their concerns to school board members, leading to the vote.
“I do want to say the power and commitment of community have definitely spoken up on this issue,” DeKalb County School Board member Whitney McGinnis said.
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Channel 2’s Tyisha Fernandes reported that parents believe children need time to run around.
She said she sat in the boardroom for hours as staff presented their plan to the board. The proposal included a 30-minute recess without affecting instruction or students’ social and emotional growth.
“I was bracing my constituents for the fact that it might not be possible to implement the change mid-school year, so I appreciate that. That was a heavier lift because we’re already on a course, but I think it was appropriate for us to consider the feedback,” McGinnis said.
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School leaders will receive options to update master schedules to reflect the adjustment. They have until January to implement the change, but don’t have to wait that long. The changes can go into effect as soon as possible.
Schools are encouraged to work with staff and families to determine the best changes for students.
At least two school board members wanted the 30-minute recess in writing to prevent future challenges. The board approved it Monday evening.
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