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Just before Christmas break, Head of School Margaret Broad told students and faculty that she had a gift for them that would last far longer than a single Headmistress’s Holiday. It was the one gift students said they wanted --the gift of time -- just under three hours every week for the next seven weeks.
Why is this gift so precious? For several years, faculty members have been learning more about teens and their body clocks through various research and professional development opportunities. During this trail period, the school day will begin 40 minutes later at 8:30 a.m.
Studies link teen sleeping habits to their melatonin levels, a hormone associated with sleep. Researchers have documented elevated levels of melatonin in teens early in the morning. Additionally, the National Sleep Foundation recommends that teens receive 8 to 9 hours of sleep each night.
“Time is one of the most precious commodities at a boarding school,” said Assistant Head for External Affairs Kim McDowell. “We are responding to what students are telling us.”
The schedule was created on the premise that it would preserve time for academics, chapel, sports practices and meetings. The goal is to give students more time to sleep, especially during the winter months when the days are shorter. According to the National Sleep Foundation, teen sleep habits are directly connected to stress management, concentration, eating habits, skin problems and much more.
Evaluating the new schedule will include getting feedback from students and faculty to determine what works, what items need to be adjusted, and if it will continue next trimester.
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The new winter schedule preserves class time
and allows your daughter to get some extra rest.
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