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Policy committee codifies recess as physical activity, prohibits device use during recess, and counts JROTC toward PE credits
Summary
The draft policy clarifies that recess is for physical activity (not device time), sets daily recess expectations for K–5, and confirms NJROTC participation satisfies PE requirements; changes mirror prior local practice and state guidance.
The committee reviewed updates to health education and physical education policy that include: codifying that daily elementary recess should provide physical activity and not be replaced by Chromebook or device time; confirming kindergarten through fifth grade are required to have 20 minutes of daily recess; and explicitly stating that NJROTC training meets the division’s physical education requirement.
A staff member said the change is intended to prevent recess from being used as a device reward and to ensure students receive physical activity: “Recess is for physical activity and shall not include time on Chromebooks or other devices,” the presenter said. The policy also codifies that NJROTC counts toward PE because cadets perform sustained physical training and receive supplemental online health instruction.
Why it matters: The clarification preserves time for student physical activity, addresses concerns about using device time as a reward or disciplinary measure, and avoids duplication for students enrolled in NJROTC who already complete physical training.
Next steps: Committee members voiced general approval and staff will include the language in the policy packet for board review.
