I get your point, ParadoxPat, but "diminishing value of actual instruction time" does not hit all of the real values of school. I know that when I was younger, I would not do as well on tests when we had inside recess days due to weather. Fresh air helps the situation too! The brain uses about 20% of the body’s oxygen despite weighing only 2% of total body mass. Fresh air increases oxygen intake, which fuels brain cells and supports energy production for attention, memory, and decision-making. This can reduce mental fatigue and make you feel more alert. Feeling alert and attentive is the perfect way to continue your school day after you have finished lunch, and recess. You mentioned that people get hurt, and bullies arise during recess. While sometimes this is the case, mainly people getting distracted don't feel like they have anything better to do, so they are mean. When we get down to the bare minimum, people need fresh air and some time to be with their freinds, or alone. I respect that, and I hope you will too, because it is very important for everybody, not just kids.
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