The Maryland State Board of Education convened on June 27, 2023, to discuss several key topics, with a significant focus on the issue of recess in elementary schools across the state.

During the meeting, board member Ms. McCuskey raised concerns regarding a recent letter from Ms. Bost, which highlighted the benefits of recess for students. She noted that not all students in Maryland have guaranteed recess, raising questions about the implications for their social and academic development. Ms. McCuskey emphasized the importance of outdoor play, particularly for younger students, and expressed a desire to explore existing research on the benefits of recess, including optimal duration and frequency.

The discussion revealed a lack of standardized data on recess policies across local education agencies (LEAs). Ms. McCuskey proposed the creation of a survey to gather information on recess practices in various schools, including how many schools guarantee recess, the length of recess periods, and the policies in place. She pointed out that while some counties, like Carroll County, have established guarantees for recess, others may not, which could negatively impact students' well-being.

The board acknowledged the need for a baseline understanding of recess practices and agreed to move forward with the proposed survey. This initiative aims to collect data that could inform future discussions and potential policy recommendations regarding recess in Maryland schools.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to ensuring that all students have access to the benefits of recess, recognizing its importance for both social interaction and academic performance. The next steps will involve the development and distribution of the survey to LEAs, with the goal of gathering comprehensive data on recess practices statewide.