Every morning, my friends and I find ourselves waking up at 5:00 am just to make it to the bus stop in the cold, dark mornings of Fort Collins. The early start times for schools in our community are affecting not just our safety but also our health and academic performance. Many of my peers, along with myself, experience tiredness and distraction during school hours simply because we are sleep deprived.

Research indicates that adolescents require 8-10 hours of sleep for optimal health and alertness, but current school schedules make achieving this difficult. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, starting school later in the morning aligns better with the natural sleep cycles of teenagers. Studies have shown that with later start times, students experience improved attention spans, better academic performance, and a reduction in mental illnesses like depression and anxiety .

In Fort Collins, it is crucial to consider these significant benefits for our youth. Beginning school at 8:30 am or later would provide a more conducive environment for learning and reduce the risks associated with early school start times. This change is not only about improving academic outcomes but also about prioritizing the health and well-being of students.

By implementing this change, we can help ensure that all students in Fort Collins are given the best opportunity to succeed. Improved alertness and performance in school lead to better futures for us all.

Join me in urging the Fort Collins school district to adjust school start times to 8:30 am or later. Let’s work together to create a healthier, safer, and more productive school environment for our children.

Please sign this petition to support our call for change.