If you have a high school student in the house, then you are already aware of the early wake up necessary in order to catch the bus and be at Algonquin Regional High School for the 7:20 am start time – one of the earliest times in the state of Massachusetts. One of the earliest bus pick ups this year is 6:07 am.
Research shows that teens need 8.5 to 9 hours of sleep per night, and early start times deprive them of the sleep they need. The American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended that high schools should start no earlier than 8:30 a.m. Earlier bedtimes are not a solution, as teen bodies have a different circadian rhythm that makes it difficult for them to fall asleep early in the evening. Studies have shown that later start times for high schoolers result in better academic performance, fewer car accidents, lower rates of depression and anxiety, lower rates of substance abuse, lower rates of obesity, and fewer sports injuries.
The district administration and school committees are aware of these benefits and the issue has been brought to their attention for over three years, but a solution to the start time has not moved forward.
The Start School Later Northborough-Southborough Chapter has created a petition to the Combined School Committee of Northborough-Southborough to request that a Community Task Force comprised of parents, teachers, students, administration, and other interested residents from Northborough and Southborough be authorized with the goal of examining possible options and preparing recommendations to the Combined School Committee.
Community member support is necessary to implement change and the community is asked to sign the petition to be presented at the next Combined School Committee on September 26.
This is not just a high school issue. If you have elementary school students now, they will be high school students in a few quick years.
More information on the benefits of a later start time can be found on the national website.