Meet Owen Smith, PS 39's Kids in the Game Recess Coach
Owen is from Rochester, NY and attended St. John Fisher College where he played basketball which was "a lot of work and a lot of fun!" He graduated in May and joined the KING team in July! |
PS 39 has a recess coach from Kids in the Game (KiNG) every day during our K- 5 recess period. KiNG provides trained athletic coaches to teach our children how to play new games, work together, and have a safe time at recess. In the event of indoor recess, students will stay in room 103 and play active group games with the coach. Our coach offers several unique game and activity options, facilitating the participation of students with a wide range of interests. While many children choose to join the games, others can utilize the designated free-play area to coordinate games on their own (usually ones they have learned from KING coaches). Our coach also helps with the transitions from lunch to recess and recess back to the classroom, ensuring that recess time is fully utilized and supervised. WHY KING MATTERS 1. Increased active participation and inclusion during recess 2. Students returning to the classroom ready to learn 3. A sharp decrease in bullying and increase pro-social behaviors 4. Safer play during recess (fewer injuries) According to Owen and Ms. De Paz, KING at PS39 directly impacts our children's performance in and out of the classroom. KING programs lead to a decrease in bullying and trips to the nurse's office because they are engaging in inclusive games and concepts such as teamwork, spatial awareness and sportsmanship. "If I had to describe it in one word, it is TRANSFORMATIONAL. The change on our recess and playtime culture has been remarkable. It has become much more pleasureable for our kids." - Ms. De Paz OUR MIGHTY FINE DRIVE DOLLARS HELP SUPPORT THIS TERRIFIC PROGRAM! |