Recent studies show that later school start times improve student health and performance. Schools must take action and push for later start times to prioritize student well-being and academic success. A 2018 study in Seattle found that students who slept 34 minutes longer after school start times were delayed showed better mood, attendance, and grades. Similarly, students who got at least 8 hours of sleep each night performed better and had fewer symptoms of depression. These results show that later start times are crucial for students’ well-being.

Students have long been forced to wake up early, which often leaves them tired and rushed. Early school start times hurt their health, making it harder for them to focus and do their best. Teenagers need 8 to 10 hours of sleep, but many get far less due to early schedules. Waking up at 7 a.m. or earlier for school is not healthy and impacts their performance.

Sleep deprivation leads to poor grades, more stress, and even mental health issues like depression. Many students are already dealing with school pressure, extracurriculars, and social life, and early mornings make it harder to keep up. This mismatch between students’ sleep needs and school schedules is a problem.

Several states are already changing school start times. California set a law in 2019 to start high schools at 8:30 a.m. and middle schools at 8:00 a.m. Florida passed similar legislation in 2023, with changes taking effect in 2026. Other states, like Pennsylvania and Oregon, are considering laws to start school later, too. These changes reflect growing support for better sleep for students.

A high school teacher, who has taught for over 10 years, shared that from their experience, students who get better sleep are more engaged in class, have improved attendance, and demonstrate better emotional well-being. They mentioned that while some worry about the impact of later start times on after-school activities, the benefits of prioritizing sleep far outweigh the challenges. Teachers like them have noticed a significant difference in student performance when they’re well-rested.

It’s time for schools to adapt and put students’ health first. Later start times aren’t just a good idea, they are a necessity. Students deserve a system that supports their well-being, and it’s time to make that change.