Should Schools Start Later Debate

The issue of school start times has been a topic of debate for many years, with arguments on both sides of the issue. While some argue that starting school later would allow students to get more sleep and perform better academically, others believe that it would disrupt parents' schedules and be too costly to implement. However, I believe that school should start later for a variety of reasons.

Starting school later would allow students to get the recommended amount of sleep each night. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, teenagers should be getting between 8.5 and 9.5 hours of sleep per night in order to function at their best. However, with early school start times, many students are forced to wake up before they have gotten enough rest, leading to decreased cognitive function, mood swings, and even an increased risk of accidents. By starting school later, students would have the opportunity to get the sleep they need to be successful in school.

Additionally, starting school later could improve academic performance. Studies have shown that teenagers' circadian rhythms are naturally shifted later, meaning that they are more alert and ready to learn later in the day. By starting school later, students would be more likely to be engaged in their classes and able to retain information better. This could lead to higher test scores, better grades, and overall improved academic performance.

Furthermore, starting school later could have a positive impact on students' mental health. Teenagers are already facing a myriad of pressures and stressors, and lack of sleep can exacerbate these issues. By allowing students to get more sleep, they may be better equipped to handle the challenges they face, leading to improved mental health and well-being.

Some may argue that starting school later would disrupt parents' schedules and be too costly to implement. However, research has shown that the benefits of later start times outweigh these concerns. In fact, a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that delaying school start times could result in significant economic benefits, including decreased healthcare costs and improved academic performance.

In conclusion, starting school later is a necessary change that could have a positive impact on students' health, academic performance, and overall well-being. By allowing students to get the sleep they need, they may be better equipped to succeed in school and in life. It is time for schools to prioritize the health and well-being of their students and make the necessary changes to start school later.