HCPSS Outdoor Activity Guidelines

As the weather patterns begin to change toward Fall, we wanted to provide you with information regarding HCPSS’ Outdoor activity guidelines. Generally, it is assumed that students will be outside for recess, outdoor eating, physical education, or any other outdoor activity when the temperature combined with the wind chill is not less than 20 degrees Fahrenheit or the heat index reading is less than 95.

The decision to go outside or stay inside for recess, outdoor eating, physical education, or any other outdoor activity is the decision of the administrator at individual schools. The following criteria are considered in the decision:

• Temperature and humidity

• Wind chill

• Heat index and air quality

• Age of students

• Length of time outdoors

• Adequacy of the children’s clothing

• Condition of the playground

• Falling precipitation (more than a sprinkle or mist)

• Thunder and lightning

During this time of year, students begin wearing sweatshirts, taking them off when they get warm at recess, and forgetting their sweatshirts outside at recess. If your child seems to be missing articles of clothing please encourage them to check our lost and found.