Reduce class times to extend lunch breaks at Democracy Prep
The Issue
During the 2025-2026 school year at Democracy Prep Schools, students experienced a balanced and healthy schedule that facilitated both academic success and personal well-being. Classes ran from approximately 8:20 AM to 2:45 PM, with each class and lunch period lasting around 45 minutes. This setup ensured that students had adequate time to not only learn but also to rest, refuel, and socialize during lunch.
However, as we ushered in the 2026-2027 school year, there has been a significant shift in the daily schedule across all Democracy Prep High Schools, leading to extended class hours from 8:12 AM to 3:35 PM. While the intent may have been to enhance academic rigor or increase instructional hours, the reality for students has been an increased sense of fatigue, diminished attention spans, and a noticeable decline in camaraderie and mental wellness during their limited 30-minute lunch breaks.
Research has shown that longer lunchtime provides numerous benefits to students, such as better nutrition as they have ample time to eat, improved focus and productivity in the subsequent classes, and enhanced social skills as they engage in meaningful interactions. According to a study published by the Journal of School Health, schools providing sufficient lunch duration see improved student performance and behavior.
To that end, we propose reconsidering and recalibrating the current schedule to ensure a more balanced approach that prioritizes both education and well-being. By reducing the class time to 50 minutes and extending the lunch period back to 45 minutes, we can find equilibrium, maintaining high academic standards while fostering a more supportive environment for students.
We are calling on the administration of Democracy Prep Schools to revisit their scheduling choices in light of research-backed insights and the needs voiced by students, parents, and educators. Together, we can strive for a timetable that respects the holistic development of our students.
Please sign this petition to advocate for a more balanced school schedule that accounts for students' overall well-being and creates a nurturing learning environment. Join us in making a tangible difference in the daily lives of Democracy Prep students.
465
The Issue
During the 2025-2026 school year at Democracy Prep Schools, students experienced a balanced and healthy schedule that facilitated both academic success and personal well-being. Classes ran from approximately 8:20 AM to 2:45 PM, with each class and lunch period lasting around 45 minutes. This setup ensured that students had adequate time to not only learn but also to rest, refuel, and socialize during lunch.
However, as we ushered in the 2026-2027 school year, there has been a significant shift in the daily schedule across all Democracy Prep High Schools, leading to extended class hours from 8:12 AM to 3:35 PM. While the intent may have been to enhance academic rigor or increase instructional hours, the reality for students has been an increased sense of fatigue, diminished attention spans, and a noticeable decline in camaraderie and mental wellness during their limited 30-minute lunch breaks.
Research has shown that longer lunchtime provides numerous benefits to students, such as better nutrition as they have ample time to eat, improved focus and productivity in the subsequent classes, and enhanced social skills as they engage in meaningful interactions. According to a study published by the Journal of School Health, schools providing sufficient lunch duration see improved student performance and behavior.
To that end, we propose reconsidering and recalibrating the current schedule to ensure a more balanced approach that prioritizes both education and well-being. By reducing the class time to 50 minutes and extending the lunch period back to 45 minutes, we can find equilibrium, maintaining high academic standards while fostering a more supportive environment for students.
We are calling on the administration of Democracy Prep Schools to revisit their scheduling choices in light of research-backed insights and the needs voiced by students, parents, and educators. Together, we can strive for a timetable that respects the holistic development of our students.
Please sign this petition to advocate for a more balanced school schedule that accounts for students' overall well-being and creates a nurturing learning environment. Join us in making a tangible difference in the daily lives of Democracy Prep students.
The Decision Makers
Supporter Voices
Petition Updates
Share this petition
Petition created on August 27, 2026