PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release - June 3, 22
Contact:
Grace Medrano, (213) 503-0883, grecia.medrano@lausd.net
LA Unified Passes Resolution to Establish June 28 as Play Day
New resolution designates June 28 as Play Day to promote play equity.
Los Angeles, CA (June 3, 2025) – In a decision to raise awareness about play equity, the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Board of Education unanimously passed Resolution 081-24/25, Celebration of Play Day on June 28, 2025, and Promotion of Play Equity, officially recognizing June 28 as “Play Day” and calling for expanded access to physical activity, play, and sport across the District.
The resolution acknowledges long standing disparities in access to play and movement—particularly among Black and Latino youth, students with disabilities, and those from low-income households—and commits to removing those barriers through intentional investment and community collaboration.
According to the 2024 California Play Equity Report, 66% of youth are not meeting federal guidelines for daily physical activity. The lowest participation rates are seen among Latinas, Black and African American girls, youth with disabilities, and those in households earning less than $50,000 per year. The resolution calls out these gaps and urges action to close them—starting with the recognition and celebration of Play Day.
“This is about creating space for joy, movement, and community in every neighborhood,” said Board Vice President Dr. Rocío Rivas. “Every child deserves the chance to play safely and freely—regardless of zip code or income.”
“Play is more than fun – it’s foundational. It builds confidence, connection, and lifelong well-being. By declaring June 28th as ‘Play Day,’ we’re sending a clear message: every child deserves access to the joy and benefits of movement, sport, and recreation. Los Angeles Unified is proud to lead the way in closing the play equity gap and ensuring that every student, in every neighborhood, has the opportunity to grow through play – not just in the summer, but all year long,” said Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho.
“When we recognize that play is not a break from learning, but rather the way young minds explore and make sense of the world around them, we can see why ensuring equal access to play is so critical. We must commit ourselves to this important goal if we are to ensure our students are ready for the world,” said Board President Scott M. Schmerelson.
“Sports and play offer children the opportunity to develop coordination, healthy relationships with physical activity, self-confidence, leadership skills, teamwork, and collaboration skills. Many of these competencies are transferable to the classroom and will carry our students forward into their professional careers. We applaud the commitment to upholding and prioritizing play for our children,” said Board Member Sherlett Hendy Newbill.
“Play is a powerful tool for learning at every age. While adults sometimes overlook its value in nurturing creativity, imagination, and social connection, LA Unified is proud to support Play Day and remains committed to supporting equitable access to play as a key part of every child’s development,” said Board Member Nick Melvoin.
“Play is a fundamental right, not a privilege—yet too many students in park-poor communities are denied accessibility to play because of systemic disinvestment. Play equity demands that we confront these injustices and address the whole child by ensuring that every student has access to safe, enriching spaces where they can thrive, heal, and be free,” said Board Member Karla Griego.
“Outdoor play is a critical part of child development, from our earliest learners to high school seniors. I’m proud to support Play Day – as well as push for developing green spaces that will encourage and support physical play across our campuses,” said Board Member Kelly Gonez.
“Access to play is access to learning, health, and community. As a former high school cheerleader, I know firsthand how sports transform students. We must champion year-round access to sports, movement, and play for every student we serve,” said Board Member Tanya Ortiz Franklin.
By recognizing Play Day, LAUSD reaffirms its commitment to the lifelong benefits of sport, play, and movement for all. creating safe, inclusive learning environments and advancing equity through education, aligning with the Strategic Plan 2022–26, which prioritizes safe, joyful, and healthy learning environments and supports holistic student well-being.
