In a recent school committee meeting, members expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming first Friday early release, which is expected to provide students with a three-day weekend. The discussion then shifted to the topic of implementing a late start for schools, a proposal that has gained traction in various districts.

The committee highlighted the importance of gathering community input and research to inform the decision-making process. A key takeaway from previous meetings with Burlington's superintendent, Dr. Eric Conte, was the need for guiding principles that focus on maximizing benefits for the largest number of students. The committee emphasized the significance of grounding discussions in scientific research, particularly regarding the impact of sleep on student performance.

To further this initiative, the committee plans to engage with Dr. Judy Owens, a neurologist and sleep specialist, who has advised other districts on the benefits of later start times. A call is scheduled for the coming week to discuss her potential involvement in community forums aimed at educating stakeholders about the advantages of a later start.

The committee noted that they are among the last in the Middlesex District to consider this change, with only four out of twelve districts yet to adopt later start times. Members acknowledged the need to re-engage the community in discussions that may have stalled during the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to present a well-informed proposal to the school committee after gathering data from multiple community forums. The meeting concluded with a commitment to move from discussion to concrete action regarding the late start initiative.