Weather Guidelines/Recess

Weather Guidelines/Recess 

The weather is beginning to get much colder, so please encourage your child to dress appropriately on such days.  As a reminder, students are not permitted to wear coats in school.  They may, however, wear layers - including sweatshirts or sweaters - in case they get chilly. 

Exercise outdoors is healthy and is strongly encouraged. It provides a break from the regular school routine, a chance to get some outside air, and an opportunity to run off excess energy. If conditions preclude the full recess time, even a five minute break can revitalize children and prepare them for more sitting and academic learning. Children are expected to wear warm clothing to protect them during cold weather when participating in recess or outside activities.

Generally, it is assumed that students will be outside for recess when the temperature combined with the wind chill is not less than 20 degrees Fahrenheit or the heat index reading is less than 95 degrees Fahrenheit.    However, the following are to be considered in determining if recess is to be held outside: 

  • Temperature and humidity
  • Wind chill
  • Heat index and air quality
  • Age of students
  • Length of time outdoors
  • Adequacy of the children’s clothing
  • Condition of the playground
  • Falling precipitation (more than a sprinkle or mist)
  • Thunder and lightning

Children with certain health conditions may need special accommodations during extremely hot or cold weather. Parents of those children should provide medical documentation and may be consulted to determine if other arrangements are necessary. During hot weather, teachers provide students a water break before and after recess. Additionally, any student who shows signs of heat exhaustion or overheating will be allowed a water break during recess. 

Date

Friday, December 1, 2017 (All day)