In a scene that could be mistaken for a child’s dream, kindergarteners at the Saint Clair Area School District enjoy a unique rooftop playground, surrounded by the changing colors of autumn leaves. This imaginative recess space, complete with hula hoops, blocks, and balls, offers a glimpse into Pennsylvania’s educational future.
A recent decision mandates that by the 2027-28 academic year, all Pennsylvania schools must provide kindergarten through fifth-grade students with a minimum of 30 minutes of recess each day. This initiative, celebrated by Governor Josh Shapiro in Montgomery County, aims to promote health and focus among young learners.
“It’s hard to focus when you haven’t had a chance to move around,” said Gov. Shapiro in a press release. “Recess gives kids time to exercise, get some fresh air, interact with their classmates, work through conflicts and come back to the classroom ready to learn.”
Research from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highlights the numerous benefits of recess, including increased physical activity, enhanced memory and concentration, improved focus, and better social and emotional development.
New state law
To comply with the new regulation, schools across Pennsylvania will need to adapt their schedules by next fall. This could involve extending recess durations or including additional grades. Half-day kindergarten programs will be required to provide 15 minutes of playtime.
The Saint Clair Area School District, which educates approximately 520 students from kindergarten to eighth grade, is preparing for these changes. After eighth grade, students typically transition to Pottsville Area High School.
Traditionally, recess concluded after fourth grade, but now fifth graders will enjoy half an hour of play. “It’ll be a little schedule change for us, but we’ve already talked with our fifth grade teachers, and we know where we’re going to put it in the schedule,” explained Superintendent Thomas McLaughlin. “But I think the kids will enjoy it as well.”
Other districts, such as Scranton, where fifth graders moved to intermediate schools, will also need to revise their schedules. “We are working in a committee format to meet the requirements of the passed legislation,” stated Superintendent Erin Keating.
Rooftop playground
A decade ago, Saint Clair’s expansion necessitated the development of a rooftop playground, as the building took up an entire borough block. High fences ensure safety, and padded tiles cushion falls.
While one group of children engages in a friendly game of basketball, others construct obstacle courses with blocks. Camille Corroto, a kindergartner, paused briefly from her play to share, “We get to stay up here and play with blocks,” before eagerly rejoining her peers.
Teacher Martina Kull observes significant improvements in students’ social skills due to recess, noting, “This is their time to unwind before we go back and do more instruction. It’s time for them to socialize.”
Superintendent McLaughlin often greets the energetic students on the rooftop, noting the positive impact of recess on their day. “I think it’s great for our younger students who have that energy, and it kind of breaks up their day a little bit,” he said.
