Recess at Rockbrook

We know that physical activity is an important aspect of a child's time at school. In addition to PE Class, all grades have at least one recess per day, and many have 1 or 2 more depending on age. Please be sure to review the expectations for recess at our school. Teachers will also share with students the expectations for specific games and activities.

Each grade level at Rockbrook has a set of recess equipment. Having each grade level with their own equipment encourages students to be responsible with the equipment, ensures all classes have similar access, and offers greater variety for students to play. We ask that students not bring equipment from home.

We are lucky in Nebraska to get to enjoy all 4 seasons. This also means that at times the weather gets in the way of our fun and plans. Below is a brief description of our procedures when the weather is not cooperating:

Cold Weather: So long as temperatures are 10° or warmer, students will be outside for recess, arrival, dismissal, safety patrol, and other outdoor activities.

Hot Weather: When either the temperature or real feel are 95° or higher students will be kept inside.

Air Quality Index (AQI): We also keep students in when the AQI is 151 or higher.

Rain: When rain is heavy enough that students would get considerably wet, or when there is thunder or lightning, students will be kept inside or brought inside. In addition, if conditions have been such that fields are muddy, access to dirt and grass areas may be restricted as well as playground equipment if it is deemed too slick for safe play.

Severe Weather: If the National Weather Service issues a Thunderstorm Warning students are kept inside. In the event of a Tornado Warning, students are moved to our area of refuge at the south end of the building. Families coming to the school during this time are encouraged to take shelter with us until the warning has passed.

To ensure that students can enjoy their time at recess it's important that they be dressed appropriately for the weather conditions.

• When a teacher feels that a student's dress may not be a good fit for the weather outside they may be asked to come to the office to call home. Sending your child out, particularly in cold weather is ultimately a parent's decision.
• We encourage students to wear proper coats, gloves, and hats. When temperatures are above 10º we will typically be going outside.
• If students wish to walk in deep snow, they will be expected to wear snow boots.
  
• For very deep snow or if students wish to roll and play in in the snow, students will need snow pants to ensure they stay warm and dry.
• If students wish to build with snow they must have gloves or mittens.
• When recess equipment is slick or wet, access may be restricted to promote student safety.

We appreciate your support in going over these expectations with your child. Teachers will do so as well so that students may have a fun and safe time during winter recess.

While flip-flops and crocs are a very cute and popular item, they present some safety challenges for our students out at recess and on gym days. If your student likes to be active at recess, please consider sending safer shoes for those recess / gym feet.