Buffalo Public school children just aren't getting enough exercise and parents aren't happy about it. A demonstration was held on the steps of City Hall Wednesday calling on the Board of Education to add more recess time.
With Buffalo kids among the heaviest in the state and 200-girls in city schools becoming pregnant last year, activists are pushing the school board to enforce better health policies.
Parents and children rallied just before the school board meeting. They were pushing for the city school system to take seriously its health and sexual health policies.
The most visible complaint has been an absence of time for recess, with few schools letting the kids run around and let off some steam.
Jessica Bauer Walker is executive director of the Community Healthworker Network and second vice president of the District Parent Coordinating Council.
Bauer Walker said student performance is hurt by students who need to run around a bit.
"We as parents and community members are really concerned about the health status of our children and how that's impacting their learning. The district approved a wellness policy a year ago and we have seen very little of it implemented. And, the district is also out of compliance with New York State regulations on physical education and health education," said Bauer Walk.
District officials have said the troubling academic performance requires every minute of student time.
The District Parent Coordinating Council has written to the board asking why the exercise policy hasn't been met. But they are still waiting for an answer.
