To the Editor:

The Princeton Public School district is currently considering delaying the start time for both the high school and middle school. I recognize that such a move is remarkably complex and challenging for both the district and many families, yet I am proud that we are taking the time to consider this option. The health consequences for our children are so compelling, we simply must take action.

For decades, scientists have known that teens experience a pronounced shift in their sleep-wake cycle. As they enter puberty, adolescents become naturally wired to fall asleep later. So, it’s no surprise that research has shown that when school start times are delayed, our students sleep longer, are more alert, have higher attendance rates, and achieve greater academic performance. In addition, delayed school start times are associated with fewer car crashes and better mental health outcomes, including fewer suicidal thoughts for our teens. Convincingly, because of these health and academic benefits, a recent RAND report estimated the U.S. economy would gain at least $9 billion a year, simply by delaying school start times to 8:30 a.m.

While we can teach our kids to better manage time, we simply can’t redesign their biological clock. Instead, we need to respect our students during a uniquely vulnerable stage of their lives and do our part to maximize their success. This is why the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and N.J. Department of Education (NJDOE) all recommend that the start times for both high schools and middle schools be delayed until 8:30 a.m. or later.

For far too long we’ve ignored this research, forcing teens to wake earlier than they are wired, only to wonder why they are so stressed. Fortunately, we can now join schools all around the country in righting this wrong.

Jenny Ludmer

Caldwell Drive