Wellpoint, Playworks New England Empower Teachers, Students Through Recess Events
SPRINGFIELD — Wellpoint and Playworks New England hosted a lively recess event at Springfield Public Schools on Feb. 24, showcasing the power of play to enhance students’ health and well-being. From thrilling rounds of Foursquare to an energetic game of Switch, this initiative, sponsored by health-benefits company Wellpoint, brought together students, educators, and community leaders to foster safe, engaging, and educational environments for recess.
Teachers at White Street School engaged in an interactive recess session for their students led by Playworks professionals, highlighting the profound benefits of quality recess on children’s development. Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno also joined Wellpoint and Playworks at the event.
“Recess time was an important part of my educational and physical health journey during my elementary-school days. At Wellpoint, we are committed to supporting the whole health and wellness of students, teachers, and administrators, recognizing that their health and success extend from the classroom to the playground,” said David Morales, general manager of Wellpoint. “Recess time contributes significantly to the development of cognitive skills, emotional self-control, and resilience, as well as physical and mental health. We’re pleased to support our educators and students through this initiative and witness the immediate benefits for Springfield Public Schools students.”
Max Fripp, executive director of Playworks New England, noted that “now, more than ever, play and recess are ways in which kids have the opportunity to connect with each other, build lasting relationships, and gain the skills that will transcend beyond the classroom. They are not only learning how to have fun and be active, they are learning how to solve problems independently, they are able to take calculated risks, and they are able to work together, as teams, to reach a common goal. Our relationship with Springfield Public Schools is a wonderful example of a district’s commitment to putting play and recess front and center when thinking about developing schools that encourage every kid to show up each day, ready to learn and be the best version of themselves.”
Sarno, who attended elementary school at White Street School, added that “this initiative fits well with my administration’s efforts to enhance the quality of our school system and school facilities. A major priority that has emerged from our school community is enhanced play and recreation, as we know recreational opportunities have benefits in the classroom, like improved memory, concentration, and improved social and emotional development. We are thrilled to work with Wellpoint and Playworks New England to continue to make our school facilities a safe and positive place to learn and work.”