Research shows that later school start times improve academic performance (standardized test scores, GPAs, college admissions), physical health (better BMI, cardiovascular health, dietary and screen time choices), mental health (reduced depression and anxiety), and safety (reduced drowsy driving, risk-taking, delinquency) for teens.

These improvements require later start times (not just earlier bedtimes or "good parenting practices") because teens' biology changes in a way that (1) they require more sleep (about 9.5 hrs!) and (2) delays the time their bodies and brains get sleepy and wake up. Asking them to fall asleep at 11pm (the natural time the average teen can fall asleep) and be at school, working, at 7:30am is equivalent to asking adults to sleep from 9pm to 2am and then be functioning at work at 3am! 

The Surgeon General, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Texas Department of State Health Services, the Texas School Health Advisory Council, the American Medical Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Association of School Nurses, the American Psychological Association all recommend that middle and high schools start at 8:30 AM or later to align with adolescents' natural sleep rhythms! 

If you want to learn more, please read this research review OR this other (more fun!) research review that have been provided to the FBISD Board of Directors. 

Let's ensure our children have a healthier future by advocating for a change in their school start times. Sign this petition to urge Fort Bend ISD to move high school start times to 8:30 AM or later!