Can schools cut cost yet still deliver quality education if an earlier school start time is implemented? Can kids do better in classes on a later time-shift? The issue raises concerns with parents as schools in the United States are mulling over changing the start of classes. Some say 7 a.m. is better, while others believe 9 a.m. works best. What are the pros and cons to such a move?
1) School districts could save funds early with school time changes
Some middle schools in Wichita have long implemented a 7 a.m. school start time, but the district might switch more schools to the same schedule for the incoming school year. The move is to compensate for budget cuts that would have laid off some teachers or programs. If classes start earlier, then buses would be evenly routed, thus reducing its expenses, per The Wichita Eagle.
Currently, 484 school buses service various schools in Wichita with routes at 7 a.m., 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. However, if the school start time change is implemented, only 423 buses will be needed to bring the kids to school and then back home. The school district could save between $1,516,410 and $1,725,444, Kake reports.
2) A late school start time would mean kids go home late, too.
Some parents in Mashpee, Massachusetts also prefer an early school start since this would be practical for working parents who have to bring their children to daycare before heading to work. If school starts late, then parents would be late for work as well. Most daycares also operate conveniently early.
There's also a safety concern about kids getting home late if school begins at 9 a.m. instead of 7 a.m. This means the kids could go home when it's almost dark outside and they won't have enough time to do after-school activities, per Cape News. How will they be able to pursue other interests?
3) Kids will be able to gain more sleep on a later school start time.
On the other hand, the school board of Hilton Head, S.C. recently approved a school start time change for the fall school year, with elementary students starting classes at 8 a.m., while middle and high school students' is at 9 a.m. The board believes this will aid in the kids' health because they can sleep longer. It's especially crucial for adolescents who are experiencing hormonal changes. "We focus on student learning and student health, and the research is very clear that teens benefit from later start times," said Superintendent Jeff Moss, per WSAV.
Would you prefer schools start early or in the mid-morning? What's your opinion on an ideal school start time? Share your comments below!
