Should School Start Later in the Day?

Do you feel sleepy when it is time to get up for school? Or do you wake up ready to start the day? Studies show that poor sleep can lead to bad grades. It might even lead to mental health issues. So certain states are starting school later. Others are sticking with early start times. They say an early start is necessary for busy kids. We asked TFK readers for their thoughts. Where do you stand?

Two students wait for their bus in the early morning.

Ahava Sapp, 9

Ithaca, New York

I think schools should start later. Your brain is still developing when you are young. At this stage, you need more sleep. It helps your body function and grow.

An early start time can be hard for families. It means school ends earlier too. Parents might have to leave their jobs early. Or they might not be able to pick up their kids on time.

Kids can get cranky without enough sleep. This disrupts learning.

Anwesha Rajoriya, 12

Niagara Falls, Canada

I love sleep. But sleep is not everything. Many students have after-school activities. A later start time would reduce time for other things. I play volleyball. I am also in the robotics club. I would not want to give these up for more sleep.

Delaying school start times might be good for some people. But I think there is a better solution. Kids should work on having a better sleep schedule instead.

Evelyn Mix, 12

Hillsboro, Oregon

School should start later. Kids need at least nine hours of sleep every night. That is according to studies on school-age children. School already swamps us with homework. We have to stay up late finishing it.

Also, it takes time to get ready for the day. You might say, “Just wake up earlier!” But if I wake up any earlier, I will not get enough sleep. And if kids rush in the morning, they might forget things they need.

David Son, 9

Glenview, Illinois

Starting school later might be relaxing. But it means that school would end later, too. That would leave less time for after-school activities. Sports and clubs help students build social skills. These activities might lead to future careers.

Also, starting school earlier helps students become early risers. Waking up early is a healthy habit. It promotes positive energy.