Research has overwhelmingly shown that teenagers, who require about nine hours of sleep, have a different circadian rhythm that delays the sleep cycle by two hours. The American Academy of Pediatrics' 2014 policy statement identified early high school start times as the most crucial factor contributing to adolescent sleep deprivation.

After reviewing over 20 years of adolescent sleep research, the following health and education groups have joined the AAP in supporting all middle and high schools start the day at 8:30 AM or later:

American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, American Academy of Sleep Medicine, American Medical Association, American Psychological Association, American Sleep Association, American Thoracic Society, Centers for Disease Control, National Association of School Nurses, National Institutes of Health, National Parent Teacher Association, National Sleep Foundation, Sleep Research Society, Society of Behavioral Medicine, Society of Pediatric Nurses, and the Texas School Health Advisory Committee.

Local support includes the League of Women Voters of Tarrant County, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Arlington LULAC, AISD 2016 Financial Futures Committee, and the AISD 2014 School Start Time Committee.

High schools with later starting times show improved student grades, better attendance, lower dropout rates, fewer tardies, decreased disruptive behavior, and less depression. Starting Arlington high schools at 7:35 AM undermines optimal academic achievement and creates a public health concern for local teens. The Arlington ISD must start the high school day at a time that provides every student the opportunity for academic success and personal well-being.

For more information, see Start School Later Arlington, TX Facebook page and www.startschoollater.net