A recent poll conducted among Pace students revealed overwhelming support for a late start once a week. After a one time late start was awarded to Pace high school students in exchange for the large attendance numbers at the Varsity Volleyball Championship game, a poll was provided to all impacted students. Of the 112 students who responded, all but three supported a weekly 8:30 am late start.
While 97.3 percent of students surveyed favored a weekly late start, the few who disagreed provided specific arguments against. One of those commented that while “I appreciate the idea, I need to be at school early to study and get work done.” The push for a late start, however, could benefit even those who wish to get more work done in the morning. For instance, morning team workouts could have longer practices or if not, athletes would have more time to sleep.
The poll also showed that a late start is a crucial aspect of improving teenage physical and mental health. Among the respondents, 103 students reported that by moving the start time they gained up to 30 more minutes of sleep compared to their typical sleep schedule, a physical improvement. Additionally, 97 students reported that they encountered little to no traffic on their drive to school. With less traffic on the road during the drive to school, students can arrive at school more efficiently, contributing to a calmer, less stressful start to the school day. Freshman Elizabeth Roming confirmed this impact stating, “It’s amazing how much better I feel when I get a little extra sleep. I have found it helps me stay focused and more productive during the school day”. Research supports this position. A study by the American Psychological Association mentions later start times correlate with better mental health, physical health, and better academic performance. Many Pace students mentioned in their response they do not meet the recommended eight hours of sleep per night, with some reporting they get as little as five hours. These extra thirty minutes could be crucial to their physical and mental health, as well as academic performance.
As the Pace community continues to weigh the pros and cons of a weekly late start, it remains clear that the idea of a late start has sparked an important conversation, and another opportunity to allow Pace students to best live up to the motto “to have the courage to strive for excellence”. This one change will go a long way to best support students in balancing academic demands with their well-being.
photo credit: Vivian Gerber
