Fairview Elementary expands indoor recess into student‑run "connection clubs"

Principal Ofis told the District 57 Board of Education that Fairview Elementary replaced a single‑space indoor recess with a menu of supervised “connection clubs,” and the school has expanded the program after a successful pilot.

The pilot began in January for 4th and 5th graders and gave students choices about how to spend indoor recess time — for example, a drawing room, an active gym option or a quieter space. “We wanted to give students a voice,” Principal Ofis said, describing a student survey used to design the menu. The school later formed a committee to adapt the program for younger students and began rolling it out to 2nd and 3rd graders after winter break.

The program’s stated goals are student voice, daily choice and positive peer connection. Principal Ofis said those aims map to the district strategic plan goal for “outstanding student experiences” and that staff have observed improved student behavior and more meaningful social interactions in a range of indoor‑recess settings.

Teachers, parents and board members who spoke during the meeting said the program is already popular. Board member Chris (first name used in meeting) praised the use of student voice across grades, and a parent‑board exchange emphasized that the initiative offers quieter options for children who prefer them. The board did not take any formal action on the item; the presentation was informational.

Clarifying details: Fairview reported it piloted the approach with 4th–5th graders beginning January (year stated in the presentation) before forming a committee to expand to 2nd–3rd grade. Heather Salerno was thanked for producing a video that accompanied the presentation. Principal Ofis said staff used student surveys and a principal advisory committee to design logistics and room rotations.