Being cooped up in a classroom with only the view through a window can be draining. Especially during the months of April and May, the weather begins to get warmer and the dread of wasting the day inside gets worse and worse. High school should implement time designated for breathing fresh air and soaking in the sun even if it’s only 15 minutes a day. 

Elementary students have recess and middle schoolers have break; high schoolers’ work load is heavier because students are older, but a break isn’t given like it is to younger students. Sure, lunch is considered a break as well, but having designated time to relax and rejuvenate allows students to focus on work in future classes, restarting their brains and giving them a chance to get some well needed rest. 

Fresh air not only feels good, but has benefits physically and mentally. Getting fresh air and being outside increases blood flow to the brain and improves focus and overall cognitive performance allowing students to center themselves better in class. 

In the article “Students need recess for academic, emotional and physical wellness,” from Michigan Education Association by Chandra Madafferi, recess is just as important for high schoolers as it is for younger students.

“Studies show that recess and other scheduled physical activity breaks tend to improve students’ cognitive abilities, academic performance and math and reading test scores,” Madafferi said.

Focusing more on standardized tests and spending the day almost entirely inside harms students’ academic performance. Staying inside can be draining, creating dread, students may not want to do their work and want a break. Having time outside could just be the solution. 

“Spending more time on test prep at the expense of recess actually harms students’ cognitive development and academic achievement… It makes perfect sense that getting outside and getting your blood pumping improves your thinking,” Madafferi said.

 Though having a break may not benefit all students, most would agree that a break is well needed and deserved. Having an outlet to relax and get some fresh air just may be the solution to better test scores and overall academic performance.