Looking for the most cost-effective way to improve high school students' outcomes? Let them sleep until 8 a.m., and start the school day well after then, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. In a study of freshmen cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy, those with superior academic outcomes didn't have a first period class, suggesting they could sleep later. Another study demonstrated that high school students in Florida who were exposed to more daylight before starting school (due to time zone differences) did better on math and reading tests.
There are caveats, though. While shifting schedules may be less expensive than building new facilities or developing entirely new curriculum, it could present challenges, such as accommodating after-school activities that last past nightfall.
Education Next (5/30/17)
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