Research has overwhelmingly shown that teenagers, who require about nine hours of sleep, have a different circadian rhythm that delays falling asleep and waking up. The American Academy of Pediatrics' 2014 policy statement identified early high school start times as the most crucial factor contributing to adolescent sleep deprivation. The AAP recommends that all high schools begin the day after 8:30 a.m. Numerous health and education organizations have joined the AAP, including the American Medical Association and the Centers for Disease Control, in their call for healthy school hours.

High schools with later starting times show improved student grades, better attendance, lower dropout rates, fewer tardies, decreased disruptive behavior, and less depression. Starting San Diego middle and high schools before 8:30 a.m. undermines optimal academic achievement. San Diego Unified School District must start the middle and high school day at a time that provides every student the opportunity for academic success and personal well-being.