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FCPS approves program to have later start times for students
A small group of middle schools in Fairfax County will now be starting later. A pilot program to test later start times for middle schoolers in Fairfax County Public Schools was unanimously approved by the school board.
FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. - A small group of middle schools in Fairfax County will now be starting later. A pilot program to test later start times for middle schoolers in Fairfax County Public Schools was unanimously approved Thursday night.
As it stands, the middle school start time in Fairfax County is at 7:30 a.m. The new proposed time will push that back to 8 a.m. for schools in the Mason District.
It's something that has been under review for nearly a decade with countless data being taken into consideration to the health benefits of pushing the bell back.
What they're saying:
Fairfax County Public Schools board member Ricardy Anderson is the one behind the proposal, having asked the superintendent to provide a cost-neurtral plan by April 10.
The reason behind the proposal was stated by board members that science shows too early of a morning harms students' overall health and that proper sleep is a prerequisite for learning.
What we know:
The pilot program would apply to the Mason District middle schools, which include Glasgow, Holmes and Poe.
Concerns about funding were raised in the meeting for changes in the bus schedule and meal times provided to the students but it was met with overwhelming support.
What's next:
The vote for the pilot program was just part one — Anderson says the second part is the implementation.
