I am a student at our high school who has not been able to leverage the early release option since my freshman year due to my class schedule. This is an issue that affects not just me, but countless others as well. As someone aiming to take all AP classes next year, with the only required subjects being gym and English, the demand of accruing 80 credits for seniors feels not only excessive, but may invariably lead to student burnout. Our educational system must prioritize the health and wellbeing of students, rather than quantifiable numbers such as credits.

Extensive studies have shown the impact of excessive stress-related burnout in students, with one conducted by Pew Research Center showing about 70% of teens viewing anxiety and depression as major problems among their peers. By mandating that seniors need to accrue 80 credits, we are exacerbating these mental health issues and demotivating students from achieving their academic potentials.

We call on our school board to reconsider the possible elimination of early release and late arrival. Such options provide valuable flexibility and can significantly reduce the stress load for ambitious high school students. The impact of this petition is not just on my education, but on the mental health and academic progress of the entire student body. Please, sign this petition and support us in creating a healthier, more accommodative learning environment for all students.