Tennessee committee considers bill for 40 minutes of daily elementary recess

Tennessee's House Education Committee convened on April 1, 2025, to discuss a pivotal bill aimed at increasing mandated recess time for elementary students from 15 minutes to 40 minutes per day. This proposed change, championed by Representative Speakey, seeks to address growing concerns about childhood obesity and the overall well-being of students.

During the meeting, several advocates, including Bob Eby, chairman of the state board of education, voiced strong support for the bill. Eby highlighted alarming statistics, noting that Tennessee ranks 45th in childhood obesity, with 38.5% of children affected. He emphasized the importance of physical activity, stating that children who engage in regular play are more likely to remain active into adulthood. Eby also referenced studies linking increased physical activity to improved academic performance, particularly in subjects like math and reading.

Morgan Gardner, another advocate, reinforced the argument for more recess, pointing out that while state law mandates a minimum of 15 minutes of recess, adults are entitled to longer breaks during work hours. She argued that unstructured play is essential for children's social development and emotional regulation, complementing the structured learning they receive in classrooms.

However, the bill faced opposition from Robert Gowen, representing the Coalition of Large School Systems and the Tennessee Music Education Association. Gowen expressed concerns that the proposed increase in recess time would cut into valuable instructional hours, potentially hindering academic performance and support for struggling students. He advocated for physical activity to occur outside of school hours, citing his own children's involvement in extracurricular activities.

The committee members engaged in a robust discussion about the implications of the bill, weighing the benefits of increased recess against the potential loss of instructional time. Some members expressed a desire to ensure that arts and music programs remain unaffected by any changes to the school schedule.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that while there is a consensus on the importance of physical activity for children, the logistics of implementing a 40-minute recess remain contentious. The committee is expected to continue deliberating on the bill, with advocates urging a focus on the long-term benefits of increased recess for both health and academic success. The outcome of this legislation could significantly impact the daily lives of Tennessee's elementary students, shaping their educational experience and overall well-being.