Recess Advocacy - How One Teacher Can Make a Difference

Dr. Rhea sits down with play advocate and former teacher, Summer Belloni M.Ed, to share her view on why play is important for kids. Summer describes her advocacy work and collaboration with the Student Health Advisory Council (SHAC) for increased recess in Midland, Texas. Summer Belloni, a former teacher with experience in elementary and middle school education, is passionate about getting kids outside as much as possible.  She taught in both public and private schools in California and Louisiana before relocating to Texas where she managed a community engagement website for families.  Summer’s advocacy for increased access to recess in Midland’s elementary schools led to her involvement with the Student Health Advisory Council (SHAC) and a recommendation for policy change. She kept the community informed and shared resources with her social media group, Texans for Recess.  Although the recommended policy wasn’t officially adopted, her efforts resulted in 24 out of 26 elementary schools in Midland increasing their recess time. Other resources mentioned in this episode: IPA-USA