40 degrees???. When I worked in an elementary school, the cut off for outdoor recess was 25 degrees. Since this was in the late '90s, I don't think kid's ability to withstand cold weather has changed. What is wrong with these people? Another example of the way some just try to overprotect every aspect of a child's life.
There's nothing better than seeing a bunch of fifth graders come inside with rosy cheeks, take off their coats, and settle in for some learning.
I guess these powers that be don't go out and x country ski when it's -7 degrees out.