Clifton Elementary School recognizes outside recess to be an important part of the school day. Children should be exposed to fresh air and physical activity whenever possible. Time spent outside allows students to engage in physical activity that provides them necessary mental breaks from the structure of the classroom and provides a balanced educational experience. However, there are times when it is not safe to be outside.The following conditions will be considered in determining such times:
Temperature
Humidity
Local weather reports
Age of students
Duration of time outside
Available shade
Adequacy of the clothing being worn
Clifton Elementary will utilize the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) to determine if outside recess is appropriate during times of extreme heat. According to the National Weather Service, “Wet Bulb Globe Temperature is a measure of the heat stress in direct sunlight, which takes into account: temperature, humidity, wind speed, sun angle and cloud cover (solar radiation). This differs from the heat index, which only takes into consideration temperature and humidity and is calculated for shady areas. For example, according to a recent reading of the Clifton ISD weather station located on top of the Band hall, the actual temperature was recorded to be 98.4, the heat index was 106 and the WBGT was 88.6. Due to the variables that determine the WBGT, the actual WBGT measure fluctuates. Therefore, the ten-minute average WBGT measurement will be used in making determinations.
Considerations for Outside Recess During Hotter Temperatures
When the ten-minute average WBGT reaches 88+, outside recess will be canceled and replaced with an in-classroom activity. If the WBGT reaches above 86.5, outside recess time may be reduced.
Teachers will provide students a water break before and after recess.
During outside recess, teachers will actively monitor students for signs of heat exhaustion or overheating.
Teachers need to be aware of medical conditions such as: asthma, epilepsy, allergies, medications taken, etc. which place students at higher risks for heat related issues. These conditions may be intensified in hot weather.
Considerations for Outside Recess During Cooler Temperatures
When properly clothed, elementary students may participate in outside recess in most weather conditions. Increased caution will be practiced when temperatures fall below 45 degrees including windchill.
When the temperature and wind chill falls below 40 degrees, outside recess will be canceled and students will remain inside.
Temperature considerations and suggested dress during cooler weather:
Below 60 degrees jacket and or long sleeves recommended
Below 50 degrees coat and long pants recommended
Below 40 degrees outside recess canceled