Florida lawmakers are considering removing a legislation passed in 2023 that required later start times for middle and high schools across the state. The initial legislation required high schools to start no earlier than 8:30 a.m. and middle schools no earlier than 8 a.m., with full implementation set for 2026. However, recent legislative developments suggest a shift in policy.
On Monday, the Florida Senate passed Senate Bill 296, which effectively repealed the state-mandated start times established two years ago. Sen. Bradley filed a bill that removes the requirement for district education boards to set specific start times for middle and high schools. The bill’s provisions read as follows: “Deleting the duty of district school boards to adopt policies for middle school and high school start times; deleting a requirement that instructional days for middle schools and high schools begin no earlier than specified times.”
A companion bill, House Bill 343, has been introduced in the Florida House of Representatives by Rep. Brannan, aiming to achieve the same repeal.
https://www.flsenate.gov/Session/Bill/2025/343?
Advocates of the repeal claim that local school districts should have the ability to choose their own start times based on their specific requirements and logistical reasons. Opponents, however, are concerned about the potential harmful impact on student health and academic performance.
Christine Dansby, an English teacher at Palm Beach Lakes High School, expressed her views on the proposed repeal. Dansby, who formerly taught in a Title I school, underlined the necessity of taking student well-being into account when making policy decisions.
“Many of our children encounter issues outside of school that limit their ability to relax successfully. Later start hours can offer students the sleep they need to concentrate better on their academics.
Students seeking music education degrees at Florida A&M University also commented on the topic.
Faith Mays, a second-year student, approves of later start hours, citing greater focus and performance in tough areas such as music.”As someone who benefited from later start times in high school, I found that the additional rest improved my focus and performance, especially in demanding subjects like music.”
Ja’Niya Nunnally, a second-year music education student, stated that balancing academics and extracurricular activities like band practice can be tough. Later start times enabled me to better manage my schedule and my health.”
Multiple sources show that later school start hours correspond better to teenagers’ natural sleep rhythms, resulting in improved academic achievement, mental health, and overall well-being. A recent story in Time magazine pointed out the negative impacts of early start hours on kids, stating that little sleep can lead to lower academic performance and a variety of health problems.
The planned repeal has triggered a statewide debate about how to balance local control with evidence-based measures that improve student health. As the legislative process progresses, stakeholders such as educators, parents, and students are asked to participate in conversations to ensure that any changes are in the best interests of Florida’s students.
The result of this legislative initiative will have a significant effect on school districts’ rules regarding start times, as well as the daily routines of middle and high school students across the state.