Texas Senate Bill SB355

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

• Filed: 12/19/16

Caption

Relating to the adoption and implementation of a recess policy by public school districts.

Impact

The enactment of SB355 would amend Chapter 28 of the Texas Education Code by adding Section 28.0042, which compels school districts to review and adopt a recess policy informed by the recommendations of local school health advisory councils. Districts would be required to regularly review and update their recess policies every five years, fostering an environment that prioritizes children’s mental and physical health through consistent recess opportunities.

Summary

SB355 aims to establish a recess policy that mandates public school districts in Texas to adopt and implement a specific framework governing unstructured playtime for students. The bill emphasizes the need for each school district to create a clear policy that includes the required number of minutes for weekly recess and conditions under which a student's recess may be withheld as a disciplinary action. The implementation of this policy is expected to enhance the overall well-being and development of students through structured playtimes during school hours.

Contention

While there may not be significant opposition to the concept of recess, contention could arise around the specific details such as the duration of recess, the disciplinary measures related to withholding recess, and the enforcement of these policies across diverse school districts. Some educators and parents may have differing opinions on what constitutes an adequate amount of unstructured playtime and the educational implications of disciplinary actions involving recess. Such differences could lead to debates regarding the balance between maintaining order in schools and providing students with necessary breaks for recreation and social interaction.