Hawaii Senate Bill SCR42

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/24
• Refer: 3/14/24

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Education To Conduct A Study On The Implementation Of Later School Start Times.

Impact

The proposed study aims to analyze the potential impacts of later start times on students, particularly focusing on health metrics and academic performance. The resolution specifies that the study should examine the implementation logistics concerning public elementary, middle, and high schools while ensuring compliance with existing instructional time regulations. Additionally, the Department of Education is asked to align school bus and meal schedules with the new start times, which highlights the bill's comprehensive approach towards improving educational outcomes.

Summary

SCR42 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from the State of Hawaii that requests the Department of Education to conduct a study on implementing later school start times for public schools. The resolution is motivated by recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, which suggests that school should not begin earlier than 8:30 a.m. to promote better health and academic performance among students. Currently, most public high schools in Hawaii begin their days before this recommended time, which has raised concerns regarding insufficient sleep and its repercussions on students' well-being.

Contention

Supporters of SCR42 argue that adjusting school start times is crucial for enhancing students' physical and mental health, as well as their engagement and success in academic settings. However, potential challenges include coordinating schedules across transportation and meal services, which could complicate the implementation of later start times. Critics may express concerns regarding the feasibility and transitional period schools may face as they adapt to new schedules. The study mandated by the resolution's passing will provide critical insights into these issues, potentially leading to subsequent legislative actions.