Establishing Minimum Lunch and Recess Standards

Be it resolved that BCCPAC advocate to the Ministry of Education and Child Care to establish a provincial policy encouraging minimum non-instructional time in all public elementary schools as follows:

• A minimum of two daily recess periods, each lasting at least 20 minutes, provided as unstructured, non-instructional time for physical activity and movement. One of these recess periods may be scheduled immediately after lunch but must remain separate from lunchtime and in addition to the 30-minute lunch period.
• A minimum of 30 minutes for lunch, designated as protected time for eating and social interaction. This period must be exclusive of transitions or recess, ensuring students have sufficient time to eat calmly and adequately.

Be it further resolved that BCCPAC encourage all school districts to implement this policy consistently and equitably, treating lunch and recess as distinct, essential components of the school day that support student development, academic success, and emotional well-being.