Why are teenagers sleep-deprived according to experts?

Experts explain that teenagers are sleep-deprived because their brains are biologically wired during puberty to fall asleep and wake up later due to hormone changes.

What are the potential benefits of later school start times in Pennsylvania?

Later school start times can positively impact academic performance, improve mental health, and enhance safety for teenagers, potentially reducing risks of injuries and substance use.

How will the Pennsylvania bill help schools implement later start times?

The bill authorizes schools to use money from the School Safety and Mental Health Grant program to cover expenses associated with changing bus schedules and other related logistical adjustments.

Home / Education / PA Schools Get Grant Funds for Later Start Times

PA Schools Get Grant Funds for Later Start Times

31 Jan

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Summary

Pennsylvania bill allows schools to use grant money for later start times.
Studies show 80% of US teenagers are sleep-deprived due to biological factors.
Later start times can improve academics, mental health, and safety for teens.

PA Schools Get Grant Funds for Later Start Times

A bill introduced in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives seeks to improve adolescent well-being by facilitating later school start times. The legislation allows secondary schools to utilize funds from the School Safety and Mental Health Grant program to cover costs associated with adjusting schedules. The proposed recommendation is for schools to commence no earlier than 8:30 AM.

This initiative addresses the widespread issue of teenage sleep deprivation, with studies showing that 80% of U.S. teenagers are not getting enough sleep. Experts explain this is primarily due to biological changes during puberty, where teenagers' brains are naturally wired to sleep and wake later.

The consequences of this sleep deficit are significant, impacting academic performance, mental health, and overall safety. Dr. Joanna Fong-Isariyawongse highlighted that insufficient sleep is linked to higher rates of car crashes, injuries, substance use, and aggressive behaviors.