Why School Should Start Later

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Sleep deprivation among teenagers is a growing concern. According to a recent study, many teens today are not getting enough sleep because of early school start times. Despite their changing bodies, teens are still expected to wake up early and get to school on time. While some may argue that this results from teens staying up too late, studies have shown that their circadian rhythms shift, making it difficult for them to fall asleep earlier. Implementing a later start time for schools would not only improve students' overall health, but also benefit low-income families. First, it would benefit students' physical and mental health. Studies have found that students who don't get enough sleep are more likely to be overweight or obese. Several …show more content…
21) Lack of sleep could also be a cause of mental health disorders in teens. Not getting enough sleep can impact mental health and obesity in negative ways. By starting school later, students can have more time to rest and recharge, leading to better overall health. Low-income families and single parents would benefit from a later start time. An early start time can create financial strain on families, as they have to switch up their job schedules or pay for after-school care. So, to facilitate her basic needs as a young child, I may have no choice but to stop working or work drastically reduced hours. (“Changing School Start Times Has Ripple Effects—And Those Ripples Could Sink Many Families,” p. 11) Parents would have to quit their jobs to get their kids to and from school on time. Starting school later would give parents a chance to get to school and work. Boston Public Schools wants to save as much as possible on transportation expenses. While they save, families will find themselves in increasingly precarious financial straits. (“Changing School Start Times Has Ripple Effects—And Those Ripples Could Sink Many Families,” p. 13) Schools are trying to change the bus schedule to save the most money, but in doing so, parents are