by Sebastian Turner-Martinez (Posted on October 27, 2026 @ 3:12 p.m.)

Alamo Heights Junior School offers students a 25-minute recess after lunch that encourages physical activity, supports mental health and improves student well-being, according to school wellness counselor Lisa Lucas.

After lunch, students head to the back patio for 25 minutes of unstructured play and activity. They can walk the track, talk with friends, play basketball or relax. Seventh-grader Mark Murphy said recess provides an opportunity for physical activity.

“It’s a great way to exercise outside,” Murphy said.

Unlike many other public middle schools in San Antonio, AHJS offers a daily recess period that gives students a break from their academic responsibilities.

“Exercise creates endorphins, which make you happy,” Lucas said.

According to Lucas, physical activity can improve students’ moods, helping them feel more energized and focused for their afternoon classes. Beyond these benefits, recess also gives students an opportunity to mentally relax.

“Recess lets your mind relax. I mean, even if you’re playing basketball or something like that, you’re still letting your mind relax,” Lucas said.

This break from academic work may reduce stress and allow students to return to class with a clearer mind and improved focus. Lucas’s observations align with national research on the benefits of recess.

According to a 2026 American Academy of Pediatrics policy statement, recess supports learning, reduces stress and restores students’ attention and concentration. Beyond academic benefits, the statement explains that recess helps students develop social connections and contributes to a more inclusive, positive school culture.

The research also found that recess helps students develop emotional self-control, perseverance, cooperation, communication and conflict-resolution skills. Additionally, recess can help combat sedentary behavior, weight gain and declining physical fitness.

Physical activity during recess also provides cognitive benefits. According to the research, exercise supports information processing, attention and long-term memory, potentially helping students perform better in the classroom.

While recess provides opportunities for exercise and social interaction, students also appreciate having the freedom to decide how they spend their break.

Seventh-grader Diego Stanutz said the optional nature of recess is especially important.

“I think it’s a good option for students who like to go out and be with friends and stuff, though I think the key word is option,” Stanutz said.

Students can also choose to spend their time in the library or working on assignments instead of going outside. This flexibility allows students to use the break in ways that best meet their individual needs.

While many San Antonio middle school students do not have a designated recess period, AHJS students benefit from a daily break that encourages physical activity, supports mental health and helps them return to class ready to learn.