I am advocating for this change because I’ve seen firsthand how waking up before the sun just to sit in a classroom for seven hours leaves us with no mental room to actually enjoy our lives or bond with our families. We aren't just students; we are people who deserve to feel awake and alive during our teenage years.

Currently, high school students in Cumberland County are required to wake up before dawn to attend classes. This schedule is fundamentally at odds with the biological clock of a teenager. Research from the American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that middle and high schools should start no earlier than 8:30 AM, aligning school schedules with adolescent biological sleep patterns can significantly improve mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being.

Numerous studies have corroborated these findings, demonstrating that students with later start times report greater alertness, better attendance, and improved moods throughout the day. Given that the early start times contribute to sleep deprivation, which can impair cognitive function, mood regulation, and increase emotional stress, it's crucial that we take actionable steps to support the well-being of our youth.

This change not only affects students academically but also socially. With more adequate rest, students are better able to engage in meaningful interactions with their peers and family, enhancing their social skills and personal development.

Taking this step forward demands commitment from the Cumberland County School Board to prioritize student health and success over logistical convenience. By considering the shift to a start time no earlier than 8:30 AM, the county will be making an evidence-based decision that reflects the needs of its students and respects the biological realities of adolescence.

Join me in urging the Cumberland County School Board to adjust the start times for our high schools. Sign this petition to make a tangible difference in the lives of students, allowing them to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.