I would have an issue with this also! So they are saying kids can't eat while other kids are talking - oh, yes this makes total sense (she says sarcastically).

Our school takes recess away also as consequence. What does not getting recess look like? For us it means the kids have to walk around the playground the entire time. By doing this the kids still get exercise so school is off the hook legally.

OTOH - a 30 min. lunch would be great! Our daughters get a 25 minute lunch and that is from the classroom, down the long hallway, into the serving lines, filling your tray and eating, so more like 15-20 minutes depending on where you are in the line.