justplainbil

Just Plain Bill

Recess Rock Equals Energy Unequaled

I now live about three city blocks from an elementary school. When I’m working at home, I can hear the laughter, hollering, and all sorts of sounds of energy and excitement from around 100 children between the ages of five and eleven, making good use of their time out of class.

When elementary students are asked to list their favorite time of the school day, they usually say “recess”, with lunch or PE coming in a close second. Ever wonder why?

As an under-sized, poorly coordinated child, I didn’t especially like recess, or PE. I would usually get chased at recess, and at both recess games and PE, I was the last one chosen – when the teacher said one team had to pick “Billy.” One thing for sure, I was able to burn some energy running from the numerous bullies I encountered on the playground.

I eventually grew to a substantial 5 feet, 6 inches, and my coordination improved to the extent that I excelled at physical challenges in the Marine Corps, earning a brown belt in judo. I also lettered three years as a college wrestler.

I carried those memories of being left out as a young boy into my inclusive recess and physical education assignments as a public school teacher. Under my watch, no student was left behind in our activities. I found places for the students who were undersized and less-than well coordinated. After all, wasn’t recess invented to give kids a break? Why let it morph into dread?

So, when I learn that some teachers have taken recess away or sit students during PE, my hair stands on end. ALL students can benefit from running off some energy, and getting to exercise their vocal cords as well.