This bill mandates that starting in the 2027-2028 school year, all school districts in Kansas must provide a minimum of 30 minutes of daily organized recess for elementary students, defined as those in grades kindergarten through five. The bill prohibits the limitation or withholding of recess for disciplinary reasons, except in cases where a student poses an immediate threat to themselves or others. Additionally, the bill establishes a Kansas state physical fitness test for students in grades one through twelve, which aligns with the presidential physical fitness test, and requires annual administration of this test by school districts, with certain exemptions for students with disabilities or medical conditions.

The bill also amends existing law regarding the school term, specifically K.S.A. 72-3115, to replace the term "pupils" with "students" throughout the text. It clarifies that organized recess time, not exceeding one hour per school day, will be considered part of the school term. The bill repeals the existing section of K.S.A. 72-3115 and includes provisions for the scheduling of school days and hours, as well as the potential for waivers from the state board of education in cases of inclement weather. The act will take effect upon publication in the statute book.

Statutes affected:
Enrolled: 72-3404, 72-3115