An increasing number of school districts are beginning to delay the start time of classes as research grows showing that sleep is an important part of student health.
Around 70 school districts across the country have begun starting their school days later in recent years, following what has become a scientific consensus over the dangers of sleep deprivation, according to CBS News.
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Although the vast majority of school districts still start school at the usual time, prominent health organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and the American Academy of Pediatrics have advocated for the change.
Studies have shown that starting classes after 8 a.m. can improve academic success, attendance, mental health and decrease sleep-related car accidents.
One of the main challenges for school districts wishing to delay classes is parent opposition. Although there are many parent organizations advocating later start times, many parents struggle with the change in schedule, particularly those with younger children.
The Seattle school board recently announced they’ll begin starting classes at 8:45 a.m. next school year after extensive input from parents. A similar plan failed in Chicago because the district didn’t adjust to community input.
