Elementary students jumprope during lunch recess, Dec. 15. Students are given a break from class after lunch to play and let all their energy out.

Former elementary PE teacher Darbee Whipple explains why recess was beneficial for both kids and teachers.

“It helps to relieve some of their stress, it helps them to have down time to get their wiggles out and focus,” Whipple said “Teachers definitely need time to prepare for lessons and time for rest.”

The opportunity for kids to take a break from academics and to release all their energy helps them focus better later on in the day.

For more Feather photos, visit media, photos 2016-17.