HSC Press Releases

For Immediate Release
Contact: Tara Kennon, 312-419-1810
tara@healthyschoolscampaign.org

Parents United for Healthy Schools Announce Recess Bill Progress
Illinois House passes recess bill after parent groups meet with legislators

Chicago, May 7, 2007 -- A few minutes of free play – along with the academic and health-related benefits that go with it – may soon be within reach for Chicago schoolchildren.

With urging from parents advocacy groups, the Illinois House of Representatives passed a bill on May 1 requiring a 10 minute recess for all elementary schools in Chicago. Eighty-five percent of elementary school students in the city of Chicago do not have recess, although it holds promise in combating epidemic rates of childhood obesity and research documents its connection to an increased focus on leaning.

"Our communities are facing epidemic rates of childhood obesity, yet our children don't have a minute to run and be active during the school day," said Idida Perez of West Town Leadership United, one of the groups involved with Parents United. "Recess is a perfect way to get kids moving – it's good for their health, and it helps them focus so they can achieve more academically when they get back to class."

Parents United for Healthy Schools/Padres Unidos Para Escuelas Saludables, a coalition of more than 30 independent parent organizations brought together by the Healthy Schools Campaign , advocated strongly for the passage of the bill and will continue to speak up for the importance of recess as the bill moves ahead in the Senate.

After a recent Parents United lobby day in Springfield, an additional nine representatives signed on as co-sponsors of the bill. Sen. William Delgado is sponsoring the bill in the Senate; Rep. Mary Flowers sponsored it in the House.

Join us for a press conference to celebrate this victory and hear from the students, advocates and researchers who are leading the way for all children to have access to recess:
When: Tuesday, May 8, 10:15 a.m.
Where: Mitchell School: 2233 West Ohio Street, Chicago, IL 60612

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The Healthy Schools Campaign, an independent not-for-profit organization, is the leading authority on healthy school environments and a voice for people who care about our environment, our children and education. Our mission is to advocate for policies and model programs that allow students and staff members to learn and work in a healthy school environment.