Most of us know the feeling, your alarm goes off while it is still dark outside. For a moment, you do not even know what day it is. You hit snooze once, or three times before dragging yourself out of bed and hoping you make it to school before 7:20. By the time first period starts, half of the students are running on no sleep. Yet, we are all expected to take notes, think critically, and perform well academically. The problem is not the students; it is the schedule.
Teenagers are not being dramatic about being tired. Early start times have become an overlooked issue in schools. Students have reported feeling unmotivated, unfocused, and emotionally drained before the school day even begins. Teachers often find themselves repeating instructions because half of the class is not fully awake yet. Some students rely on energy drinks or coffee just to stay awake through first and second period. Some students have strong opinions on this matter, Bella Weber said, “I think we should push it back to 8:30. On the 2hr delay schedule, I feel like we get so much more work done. If classes are too long, then kids start to lose focus.” Lexi Shuble also says, “It affects students performance in the classroom. They are always tired and can not work to their full potential.”
There are safety concerns as well. Students with early travels have to drive in the dark while also half asleep and this increases the risk of accidents. I asked parents, and they have shared that they worry every morning until they get the “I made it” text. Even a 30 minute delay could reduce those risks. Yes, if school starts earlier, the students get out earlier and there will be the same amount of time, but parents say they would rather their child be safe and them drive when it is light out.
The truth is that a schedule that harms students is not a schedule worth keeping. We deserve a start time that matches reality, not one that forces us to operate half asleep. It is time for our school to consider putting students’ well being first and letting the bell ring when we are ready to learn.
