Parents and educators press Kenosha board to guarantee 30‑minute recess; board agrees to pursue policy

A steady stream of public commenters told the Kenosha Unified School District board that recess is essential for students’ social, emotional and physical health and urged a district policy guaranteeing at least 30 minutes of recess.

“Recess matters. Bringing joy back to school isn't optional,” said Valerie Kretchmer during the public‑comment period. Several other parents and a former school counselor urged the board to adopt a districtwide minimum for recess (including middle school). Speakers cited research and Wisconsin guidance that allows 30 minutes of recess to count toward instructional time.

Sam Orchnick and other commenters asked the board to place a finalized policy on the agenda for a full vote so the public could see elected officials’ positions. In closing remarks, board member Mr. Tierney said he would work with colleagues to bring a recess policy forward using existing district policy as the procedural mechanism.

The board did not adopt the policy at this meeting but several members publicly committed to moving the topic forward at a future agenda and requested staff model implementation costs and scheduling implications for elementary schools as a first phase.

Next steps: Board members said they will draft policy language and bring it to committees for review and to the full board for consideration in an upcoming meeting.