First, you need to come up with some good reasons why recess is important for older students. Try going online and finding some research on the connection of taking breaks and better learning that follows a break, and how exercise is beneficial, lack of exercise and obesity in children, and how play is beneficial for children, social benefits, etc.

I would also work cooperatively, and collaborate with others. Try talking to some teachers, counselors, principals, parents, and find some adults who agree with your reasons. When concerns come up (such as throwing rocks), ask the adults what they think can be done to limit this behavior, or what sort of consequences could be put in place.

You could also bring up new ideas – what if the older students were to organize games, or help out with the younger students? Or what about service projects – planting a garden, or working outside to better the school during this down time?

I don’t think storming in with a petition is really going to do anything. But it is good to talk to students, and take down names of students who would be willing to help make this work. Then when you talk to the adults, you can bring up that X number of students are willing to help and want to see this happen.

Good luck! I’m so glad to see someone your age working proactively to make change in the world! 🙂

Everyone needs a little break during the day from school. Contact your school board president and find out what you need to do to get this on a meeting agenda. You will have to follow their procedures no matter how simple and great a huge petition sounds. The school may feel that there are not enough teachers to serve as supervisors during recess, and yes they are legally bound to watch kids during school. The school board may feel there is too much liability for 6th-8th to have recess. Maybe the victim of the rock throwing sued them for a huge amount of money. It’s possible that extra insurance will have to be paid when kids are let out of the buildings for recess. These are issues you need to cover with the school board president. Call the pres and ask for an appointment to get the history of recess at your school. You can ask in a future question here if any students in your grades actually get recess. You can find out the scoop about the policies at their schools. This you can discuss with the board pres too. Best of luck to you!!

I teach on a 6, 7, 8 campus and we DO have recess when they’re finished with lunch — maybe not everyday, but at least several times a week. Also, teachers are encouraged to periodically give students some time to learn outside. Even in bad weather, we still give students a chance to earn time for indoor games. Many games that students enjoy are actually very good for building higher order thinking skills. We have tournaments that encourage a friendly rivalry, and let students show off some of their hidden talents.

Now, before anyone discards this idea, we have the highest performing campus in our district. We work hard in the classroom, but we realize that kids need some time to expel their energy.

I would suggest finding a teacher on your campus who is willing to work with you and guide you in the proper procedures for your school. With a little research you can find stats that support the idea of recess at any grade level. Then respectfully submit your request and your research through the proper channels. Best of luck!