As summer comes to a close, many students are getting prepared for the new school year. While the start time for schools varies from state to state, one common trend is that most schools start early in the morning. But is this really the best approach? Let’s examine the pros and cons of starting school early.
The Benefits of Starting School Early
More Productive Day
Starting school early in the morning can lead to a much more productive day. This is because the human brain tends to function better earlier in the day. Studies have shown that cognitive performance is often highest in the morning, which means that by starting school early, students can maximize their learning potential.
More Time for Extracurricular Activities
Another benefit of starting school early is that it allows students to have more time for extracurricular activities. Students who start school early often finish early in the afternoon, which gives them more time to participate in sports, clubs, or other activities.
Lower Transportation Costs
Starting school early can also help to lower transportation costs. This is because schools that start early often have buses that run earlier in the morning, which means that they can pick up students and drop them off earlier in the afternoon. This can result in lower transportation costs for schools and families.
The Drawbacks of Starting School Early
Poor Quality of Sleep
One of the main drawbacks of starting school early is that it can lead to a poor quality of sleep for students. This is because many students have trouble falling asleep early in the evening, which means that they often stay up late at night. This can result in sleep deprivation, which can have a negative impact on student performance in class.
Increased Mental Health Issues
Starting school early can also lead to increased mental health issues among students. Studies have shown that early school start times can lead to increased anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues among students.
Reduced Academic Performance
Finally, starting school early can also result in reduced academic performance. This is because students who start school early often have trouble performing at their highest level during the morning hours. This can have a negative impact on their test scores, grades, and overall academic performance.
Key Takeaways
- Starting school early can lead to a more productive day and more time for extracurricular activities.
- Starting school early can help to lower transportation costs for schools and families.
- Starting school early can lead to a poor quality of sleep, increased mental health issues, and reduced academic performance.
FAQ
What time do most schools start?
Most schools start between 7:30 am and 8:30 am.
Can starting school later improve student performance?
Yes, studies have shown that starting school later can improve student performance. This is because it allows students to get more sleep and be more alert during class.
What can students do to improve their quality of sleep?
Students can improve their quality of sleep by going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, avoiding electronic devices before bed, and creating a relaxing sleep environment.