Bill > A06939

This bill mandates that every public school in New York where the school day exceeds five hours must provide up to thirty minutes of daily recess for all students in kindergarten through fifth grade, and for sixth graders attending an elementary school. This recess, which is recognized as crucial for children's physical and mental well-being, socialization, and stress relief, should be student-directed and free from electronic devices, with schools providing play equipment. Recess must be supervised, held outdoors when possible, and is separate from lunch and physical education. Schools without adequate outdoor or indoor play spaces must develop a plan or seek a waiver, and recess cannot be withheld as punishment or to complete academic work, though it may be withheld if a student poses a safety threat. The bill also clarifies that the cost of supervision for this recess can be considered an "instructional expense" for funding purposes.