Bill mandates recess for elementary students

OLYMPIA — Public school elementary school students would be guaranteed 30 minutes of recess daily under a bill moving through the Legislature.

Engrossed Substitute Senate Bill 5257, sponsored by Sen. T’wina Nobles, D-Fircrest, requires 30 minutes of recess and prevents school employees from denying recess as a disciplinary measure.

The bill passed the Senate, 28-21.

“Play is critical to positive youth development,” Nobles said. “What we know about recess is it can lower cortisol levels. It can increase problem-solving, and it can help our students build relationships with each other when they...