Once it’s on the whiteboard, it’s real. Photo courtesy of junior Karl Karsh.
Students at San Luis Obispo High School have mixed emotions about the new schedule being implemented. While some enjoy the later start time for the sake of sleeping in, others dislike the late end times, especially when they have extracurriculars and sports after school.
Last year, SLOHS started at 9:30 a.m. on Monday and at 8 a.m. on Tuesday-Friday. This year, school starts at 10 a.m. on Monday and at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday-Friday. The main end time of 3:10 p.m. has been pushed to 3:40 p.m.
California Governor Gavin Newsom passed state bill SB 326 in 2019, giving public schools three years to start no earlier than 8:30 a.m. The law was based on multiple studies that showed that teens aren’t getting enough sleep, which declines their health and performance in school.
Due to this law being passed, school now starts at a later time.
“I like the new schedule this year. I find myself less stressed in the morning because I am not rushing to get out of the house and get to class. Because teenagers are naturally inclined to stay up later, it has made a good night’s rest difficult, no matter how early I try to get to sleep. The lenience this year makes me feel more rested,” said junior Kyle Platte.
Platte isn’t the only one who likes the new schedule.
“I am liking the new schedule. It’s a weird change to adjust to, but I feel like I’m getting more sleep,” said sophomore Sophia Jepsen.
Though some students enjoy the later start time, others aren’t as fond of it.
“I know the schedules changed partly so students would get more sleep, but that’s not what’s happening. Our guardians’ work schedules didn’t change so we’re having to get up at the same time if our guardians drive to school. That means students are getting up at the same time, then school, sports, and homework is getting pushed later into the day, which is potentially even less sleep. While I do like the change in routine, it’s not really beneficial to anyone,” said junior Chiara Thomas.
As the school year progresses, students will have more time to adjust to the new schedule and decide for themselves whether or not they prefer it over the old one.
Source: Lozanasmith.com
