National PTA Supports Campaign to Keep Recess in the School Day

A March 13, 2006 article from The Associated Press reports that the National Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is helping to launch a national letter-writing campaign to encourage government and education leaders to keep recess as part of the school day. According to the PTA, budget restraints and increased emphasis on standardized tests have prompted almost 40% of elementary schools across the country to drop recess. Members of the PTA, along with many students, contend that regular recess breaks are necessary not only for the physical benefits but, also, as a way for students to develop social skills.

The article is available at the NBC5.com (Chicago) Web site. A corresponding press release is posted at the National PTA Web site.