If school were to start later, at 9.30 a.m., not the unearthly hour of 7.30
a.m., everyone would look forward to school. Firstly, to be at school by 7.30
a.m. would mean that we have to drag ourselves up by 6.00 a.m., if not 5.30 a.m.
The thought of trudging to school in the
dark is enough to drive all joy away. Moreover, before the morning is over,
students are tired and drooping. How can any
learning take place when we cannot even keep our eyes open?
Secondly, teenagers who have insufficient sleep cannot do well at school. We
all know that sleep is food for the brain. Teenagers need at least nine hours of
sleep each night to function best. Being sleep-deprived, their brains cannot
absorb information. They cannot solve problems. They are
grouchy and grumpy. Traditionalists may say this is just an
excuse. School has started at 7.30 a.m. since ages ago. Just go to bed earlier.
However, sleep specialists have researched that hormonal changes in teenagers
keep them awake until quite late. Biological sleep patterns shift later and
later for adolescents. It is natural for them not to be able to sleep before
11.00 p.m.
Thirdly, many teenagers miss breakfast to get to school on time. We all know
that breakfast is the most important meal of the day and should not be missed.
In addition, teenagers can have bonding time with parents if school starts
later. They can take their time over breakfast with their parents. Many working
parents come home late. By which time they are too tired to want to do more than
have a meal and rest.
In conclusion, authorities should not be afraid to make changes. If school
were to start later, students will definitely do better at school. |