5360 - RECESS GUIDELINE FOR HARSH WEATHER

Each principal, in collaboration with staff, is to establish the criteria (weather conditions) for determining, on a day-by-day basis, when recess will be held. The decision may vary from grade to grade.

Conditions that should be considered are:

1. temperature;
2. wind chill (see next page);
3. age;
4. length of time outdoors;
5. adequacy of clothing of the children;
6. condition of the playground. 

Recess will only be held outdoors if the temperature is above 32 degrees, with consideration of wind chill temperatures.

IMPORTANT - Children with special health conditions, in particular, asthmatic children, may need special accommodation of their needs during cold weather or periods of high pollen or inversion. The parents of these children are to be consulted in creating a workable system for determining when other arrangements are necessary and for the child's supervision.

Hot Weather Guidelines:

1. Provide for frequent water breaks or have plastic water bottles easily accessible.
2. Watch carefully for possible heat exhaustion or over-exertion but do not give salt tablets, unless authorized.
3. Plan for less vigorous physical activity after mid-day.