Even with the best intentions the most mundane or widely-practiced routines in schools can cause unseen trauma.

A part of the day seen as essential like recess,...
is often just a tool to condition students, not allow them a moment of freedom. 1/

In many schools across the country, like my own, students look forward to lining up just for the chance to spend time outside or in open space. Time that is always much too short. 2/

They are told to walk in orderly silent lines, often being reprimanded for small infractions, then led into an asphalt yard, with 30 feet high-chain link fences, to run around, under the surveillance of adults. 3/

Students who are perceived as misbehaving are sat down in silence, without 2nd chances, often losing the privilege temporarily, for themselves or their entire class, to come outside again. Their consequence is to remain indoors by themselves, with no simulation or connection. 4/

And just when it seems they have just begun to enjoy themselves, a whistle is heard throughout the yard, signaling to line up against the fence and march back inside the school, down dimly lit halls, with gated windows, to sit in their chairs for the reminder of the day. 5/