Staff Writer
The Florida Legislature has approved a bill this week that would give school districts and charter schools greater flexibility in meeting a 2023 mandate requiring later start times for middle and high schools. The legislation, Senate Bill 296 (SB 296), now heads to Governor Ron DeSantis for final approval.
In 2023, lawmakers passed a measure requiring public middle schools to begin no earlier than 8 a.m., and high schools no earlier than 8:30 a.m., citing scientific research indicating that later start times can improve adolescent sleep patterns and overall academic performance. The new start time requirements are scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2026.
However, concerns quickly emerged from school administrators across the state, who warned that the logistical and financial burdens of implementing the changes—such as revising bus schedules, adjusting after-school programs, and coordinating family schedules—could be substantial.
Rather than repealing the law entirely, the Legislature opted for a compromise. SB 296, passed on Tuesday, allows school districts and charter schools to remain in compliance with state law if they submit a comprehensive report to the Florida Department of Education by June 1, 2026. The report must include:
The current start times for elementary, middle, and high schools in the district
A summary of strategies considered for implementing the mandated later start times
An assessment of the anticipated or realized financial impact
An outline of any unintended consequences observed or projected
According to a legislative staff analysis, the average start time for Florida’s 541 high schools is currently 7:45 a.m., with nearly half—46%—starting before 7:30 a.m. For the state’s 490 middle schools, the average start time is 9:03 a.m., with 8% beginning before 8 a.m.
If signed into law by Governor DeSantis, SB 296 will take effect on July 1, 2025. The legislation is seen by many as a pragmatic approach to addressing public health concerns while acknowledging the operational realities faced by school districts across the state.
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