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Dear Hechinger Reader,
As Giving NewsDay comes to a close, I wanted to share one example of how our national, single-topic newsroom reached the right person at the right time, leading to legislative reform in California.
Our series of investigations into discipline practices across the country helped to expose a common punishment for elementary school students — the loss of recess — despite research showing that physical activity and play are vital for children’s development.
At the time of our original reporting, up to 86 percent of teachers had denied or decreased recess as a punishment for behavior — in some cases simply for failing to finish school work — forcing young children to stay inside, walk laps or sit and watch their friends play.
Our reporting was cited by a California state senator who proposed a law to require daily recess for K-8 students and repeal the state code that allowed for it to be withheld for disciplinary reasons. The California bill became law and took effect this school year.
If you see the value of our recent efforts, please help us raise $60,000 this season.
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