Legislation is moving to Governor JB Pritzker’s desk that would allow for some “R-and-R” time during the school, but at least one local lawmaker is not in favor.
Senate Bill 2872 passed would allow for 20 minutes a day of what’s being called “relaxation time” in schools – the theory being it can help a child’s mental health. It would also allow for school districts to partner with external agencies to get that activity done — activities outlined in the bill like yoga, walking, or other things.
But local State Representative Dan Swanson thinks that might not be what students need most right now.
“We continue to take away from math, science, history, and all those other classes that we expect to be taught in our schools,” said Swanson, during debate on the House floor.
The Alpha Republican says after other legislation passed requiring 30 minutes of recess every day, this legislation is not needed.
“We keep reducing the teacher contact with the students by adding 30 minutes for this, and 20 minutes for that. I think we need to focus on what schools are about, [which] is education.”
Swanson says he understands that kids’ mental health is important, but he thinks such decisions about the school days should be left up to local districts.
Democrats argue the time is good for a child’s mental health, because of all the trauma they face.
Similar efforts in Chicago have reportedly been subject to lawsuits.