ATLANTA – State Representative Demetrius Douglas (D-Stockbridge) recently introduced House Bill 273, legislation that would require Georgia’s local boards of education to schedule a daily recess period for students in kindergarten through fifth grade.
“This week, I introduced House Bill 273, legislation that simply encourages children to play outside and engage in physical activity,” said Rep. Douglas. “Research shows that students benefit tremendously from recess, and I am proud to sponsor legislation that promotes the physical, social and emotional health of Georgia’s young learners.”
Under HB 273, recess periods must include least 30 minutes of supervised, unstructured and safe activity time, preferably outdoors. This 30 minute recess period would begin in 2017-2018 school year. Additionally, the bill prohibits teachers, administrators and other school officials from withholding recess as form of a punishment.
For more information on HB 273, please click here.
Representative Demetrius Douglas represents the citizens of District 78, which includes portions of Clayton and Henry counties. He was elected into the House of Representatives in 2012, and currently serves on the Banks & Banking, Health & Human Services, Intragovernmental Coordination, and Motor Vehicles committees.
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