Prince William shortens recess, makes changes to make up for lost school days

Prince William County school board members voted Feb. 19 to adopt the Superintendent’s recommendations to meet instructional minimums set by the Virginia Department of Education.

This will entail:
• Changing March 31, currently a teacher professional development workday, to a full instructional day for all students;

• Keeping June 17, the last day of school, as a full day of instruction—high school exam schedules will not be affected;

• Making June 18 the last day of school for elementary students by adding a half-day of school for elementary students on June 18; and

• Reducing elementary recess to 10 minutes per day, starting Feb. 24.

The move does not mean students will be deprived of exercise. Teachers will be free to include supervised wellness and physical education activities in the daily routine. Dr. Walts explained at the Board Meeting.