BILL REQ. #:  S-3888.1 

Read first time 01/22/2004.   Referred to Committee on Education.

     AN ACT Relating to school start times; creating new sections; and providing an expiration date.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 1   The legislature finds that scientific studies show that sleep contributes significantly to several important cognitive, emotional, and performance-related functions and that excessive sleepiness is associated with reduced short-term memory and learning ability, negative mood, inconsistent performance, poor productivity, and a loss of some forms of behavioral control. The legislature further finds that the consequences of insufficient sleep are particularly pronounced among adolescents because of the changes experienced by adolescents due to puberty. The legislature further finds that school districts should consider sleep-friendly start times that are more likely to result in students that are alert and performing well in class.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 2   By September 1, 2004, each school district board of directors shall review the start times of each of the schools within the district and consider starting high schools no earlier than 9:00 a.m. When making the decision, the board shall consider the impact of a later start time on the following:
     (1) Student academic performance, behavior, attendance, and tardiness;
     (2) Student participation in athletic programs and other extracurricular activities;
     (3) Neighboring schools and school districts' schedules;
     (4) Transportation services;
     (5) Use of the school for community activities during nonschool hours;
     (6) School food services;
     (7) Employment of adolescents;
     (8) Safety issues;
     (9) Family members; and
     (10) Any other consideration that the board deems appropriate to be considered.

NEW SECTION.  Sec. 3   Section 2 of this act expires December 1, 2004.