Research from the American Psychological Association shows that teenagers experience greater academic success when they begin school later in the morning. Scientists continue to emphasize the importance of sleep for students as a factor that directly affects productivity, emotional wellness and ability to learn.
Although the data show a clear link between teenagers getting enough sleep and improving learning, there are very real logistical challenges standing in the way of putting later start times into practice. Students enrolled in an online Master of Science in Education in Educational Leadership program at Arkansas State University (A-State) learn more about the research surrounding students and sleep, as well as the potential benefits and challenges that come with later start times that may help schools improve learning for their students.
Biology of Teenage Sleep Habits
Teenagers are notorious for sleeping long hours, and researchers say that this is perfectly normal. As children transition to adolescence, their sleep habits and needs change. They may need to sleep longer hours and can experience a surge of fatigue during daytime hours. Teenagers also generally experience a sleep phase delay, which means they stay awake later in the night and wake up later in the morning. Researchers say that, especially with the changes that happen during puberty, the importance of sleep for students cannot be overstated.
According to EdWeek, teenagers need between 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night for optimal health and academic performance. The AAP has recommended since 2014 that middle schools and high schools begin no earlier than 8:30 a.m. to adequately satisfy the sleep needs of students. Research published in the Brain Research Bulletin shows that during adolescence, internal circadian rhythms and biological sleep drive change to result in later sleep and wake times.
The Impact of New Start Times on Families
For working parents who need to be at work by eight or nine in the morning, a late morning school start time might be problematic. For example, some parents may not feel comfortable with their children getting themselves to school independently.
Another logistical issue hinges on the question of when students would return home. If students begin school later, would they not leave school until later in the afternoon or evening? Many school officials and parents say this schedule is impractical.
Delays Disrupt Teachers’ Schedules
If student schedules change, it affects everyone directly supporting the school, including bus drivers, teachers, administrators and custodians. A later start time potentially disrupts the schedules and work contracts of many different people, who may not be receptive to the change. Many school districts manage limited bus fleets that serve multiple schools, requiring carefully staggered start times. It is important for schools considering a change in start time to collaborate with teachers on this impact.
However, research from NEA Today examining a Colorado school district found that middle and high school teachers felt less stressed and more rested three years after their schools implemented later start times. The study found that the policy shifts improved health and well-being not only for adolescents but also helped support healthy sleep duration for all K-12 teachers.
What Recent Research Shows
Although the research linking the importance of sleep for students and improving learning is certainly compelling, there are still logistical challenges that may prevent schools from adopting later start times. As the debate continues, candidates earning their master’s degrees in education will likely find themselves immersed in this conversation, as it demonstrates the importance of research in shaping school policy.
Advanced degree programs helps graduates develop essential skills to pursue these sorts of school changes. Educational leaders must balance scientific findings with logistical feasibility, stakeholder input and community needs to make informed decisions about school schedules.
Learn more about the A-State online MSE in Educational Leadership program.