Time for Change ?

RESEARCH “Circadian Rhythm” is not a garage band… Patterns of sleep and alertness are hard-wired in terms of quality, quantity and time of day. Sleep deprivation relates at least as much to sleep times as it does to sleep duration. Younger student peak alertness is morning & mid-day but older student peak alertness is afternoon and evening. Sleep deprivation results in lower cognitive and motor functioning, poorer mental and physical performance, higher risk behaviors and adverse safety consequences.

REALITY Wake Up Call* Teens need 8.5-9.25 hours of sleep. 69% of high school students average 7 hours of less sleep (39% get 6 hours of less). 43% of public high schools start before 8 a.m. . 33% of teenagers report falling asleep in school. * Sarah McKibben, ASCD (2014)

GETTING IT BACKWARDS High school scheduling (year and day) is primarily driven by everything but maximizing education & student wellness. School staff work hours Parent work hours & lack of child care Scholastic sports & after school activities Transportation services Building operations School staff & student after school jobs “Lazy kids”

THE CHOICE It’s not about sleeping, it’s about student learning & health. Not changing is choosing.