Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that amends the courses of study article of the school Code for the purposes of mental health breaks.

Highlights:

• Authorizes each school district to provide to students, in addition to and not substituting recess, at least 20 minutes a week of relaxation activities to enhance the mental and physical health of students as part of the school day (Sec. 5).

• Specifies that relaxation activities may include but are not limited to (Sec. 5):

• Mindful-based movements; 

• Yoga;

• Stretching;

• Meditation;

• Breathing exercises;

• Guided relaxation techniques;

• Quiet time;

• Walking;

• In-person conversation; and 

• Other stress-relieving activities. 

• Specifies that a school district may partner with public and private community organizations to provide relaxation activities (Sec. 5).

• Authorizes those activities to take place in a (Sec. 5):

• Physical education class;

• Social-emotional learning class;

• Student-support or advisory class; or 

• As a part of another similar class, including a new class.

Full Bill Text