There have been numerous studies in the past on what times best suit young adults regarding when to start school. In Gowanda, the school board is well aware.

During a meeting earlier this month, board members discussed staggering the start time of the high school to 30 minutes later.

“I think most districts around here start much later than Gowanda does,” board member Dollene Christopher said. “A half hour I don’t see as a huge detriment in any regard. However, is it worth doing? Is there a cost benefit that comes with it? My question is would you want to spend time looking at that?”

While admitting no decision will happen before this September, the board agreed the community needs to be a participant in the discussion if start times will be changed. It also would be interesting to hear from the high school students on this issue. Those who are in their teen years are often night owls. They may prefer a later start time option.

By the way, the earliest start time recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics is 8:30 a.m. That’s late for many area high schools.