Recess update

So, here's the latest in our little drama. Last week I wrote a letter to Avery's teacher asking her about recess. She wrote me back the same day, and basically told me it was a scheduling problem. There are portables outside next to the playground, and the teachers in those have asked that no one go outside before 12:00 because of noise. After lunch Avery's class has science, social studies and specials. There is a girl in his class that has to have an aid with her for science and social studies, so that cannot be changed. So, basically, they don't have time. After getting this back from his teacher, I took a deep breath and gave myself the weekend to calm down. Then yesterday I wrote her back (oh how I miss email!) and just let her know that I was planning on talking to the principal this week to get more information. From the beginning, I've been as nice as I possibly could, and haven't gone into it trying to accuse anyone. After hearing back from his teacher, I just decided to assume that it was beyond her control, even though I really didn't believe that. I hope that doesn't sound bad, but I just knew that I wouldn't get anywhere by assuming the worst. From the very beginning, Keith and I both felt that it really was her decision, but I was holding out hope that I was wrong. Well, today I found out that I wasn't wrong. I called the principal, and just started out by asking about their policy towards recess or any other info like that. They don't have a policy. Bummer. Anyway, I got around to the question that I really wanted to ask. Do other fourth or fifth grade classes have recess? The answer, yes. Basically Avery's is the only class that doesn't. She didn't say that exactly, but she also said that she didn't know they weren't going outside. She said that his teacher is less likely to stop doing work to go outside. She's more concerned with good test scores in the spring. You know that stupid standardized test that we all dread? Avery isn't going outside or getting any down time because of that test. Seriously? I know the state places a lot of emphasis on the scores, but it sounds like a flawed system to me. So, the principal did say that Avery's teacher came to her yesterday and told her about it, and they are going to try to find some time that the kids can go outside. I guess I'm happy that they are trying to work it out, but I'm not satisfied. They will only be going out on days that they don't already have PE. Also, she said that something could be worked out even if it meant they go for a walk in the front parking lot. I don't know what's going to happen, but I'm willing to give it a chance. We'll see how things go in the next couple of weeks. I didn't mean to write a book about this, but I guess you can tell that I feel very strongly about it. I feel better now.