As the Clark County School District prepares to implement new school start times in August, many parents are understandably questioning how these changes will affect their children’s sleep, health, and academic performance. The conversation has gained attention following recent coverage by KTNV Channel 13, where sleep expert Dr. Jerry Hu weighed in on what families can expect.
Dr. Hu explains that biological sleep patterns shift significantly during adolescence. High school students naturally fall asleep later due to changes in their circadian rhythm, making early morning start times especially challenging. According to Dr. Hu, pushing school start times later can have measurable benefits for teens, including improved focus, better test performance, and stronger academic outcomes over time.
However, the impact may differ for middle school students. While later start times are generally supported by sleep research, moving schedules earlier again can require an adjustment period. Dr. Hu emphasizes the importance of consistency at home, noting that parents can help by establishing structured bedtime routines and minimizing late-night screen exposure to support healthy sleep habits.
“Sleep is not just about the number of hours,” Dr. Hu notes, “but about timing and consistency. Preparing students early for these changes can make a significant difference in how well they adapt.”
As CCSD rolls out the new schedule, the district plans to monitor student performance and outcomes closely. Parents are encouraged to stay informed and proactive as routines evolve.
Read the full KTNV report featuring Dr. Jerry Hu’s insights here:
