This Saturday May 7, from 10 am-2 pm, Playworks is holding a free Rally for Recess at J.O. Wilson Elementary (660 K St. NE), rain or shine.

The rally is timed to ensure that recess is at the forefront of local school scheduling for SY16-17. In DC, for instance, it is not clear to what degree the Healthy Schools Act is being enforced at all DC public schools. The act mandates at least 150 minutes of physical education per week for public school students in kindergarten through grade 5 and 225 minutes per week for grades 6 through 8–and forbids withholding physical activity as punishment.

Along with the rally, Playworks is also circulating a petition that it says will be presented to superintendents and principals in DC, Maryland, and Virginia next Friday, May 13.

The petition and rally were created to underscore the vital need for physical activity for all students incorporated into every school day, to bolster learning and healthy emotional connections. Playworks is a nonprofit that provides recess services to local schools.

The Rally for Recess this Saturday will feature DC Central Kitchen, Playworks coaches, and local food donors, according to this schedule:

10 a.m Jump rope Giveaway and Demonstration
11 a.m. Playworks Parent PlayShop (training)
12 p.m. Speakers and 10th Birthday Cake
1 p.m. Washington Capitals Chef Healthy Food Demonstration