Later School Start Times Proposed in Bridgewater-Raritan

Proposed Changes to School Start Times and Transportation in Bridgewater-Raritan

The Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District is considering significant changes to school start times and transportation for the 2026-27 academic year. These adjustments come as part of a broader shift in the district’s structure, including the introduction of a full-day kindergarten program and the reorganization of grade levels.

At a recent Board of Education meeting on September 9, Mike Archer, Director of Transportation Services for the Center of Effective School Operations, presented two options for adjusting school start times. The superintendent, Robert Beers, emphasized that the upcoming year will represent a major transformation for the district, with new structures requiring a complete review of existing transportation routes.

Currently, the district operates 83 buses, each making between two and three trips daily. On average, these buses carry around 33 students, which is below the state's maximum limit of 55 students per bus. The district relies on three external vendors, along with its own fleet and drivers, to provide transportation services.

Option One: A Return to a More Traditional Schedule

Option One proposes a staggered start time schedule, with the high school beginning at 7:20 a.m., followed by the middle school at 7:35 a.m., primary schools starting at 8:35 a.m., and the intermediate school at 9:05 a.m. This option closely mirrors the schedule that was in place before the pandemic, offering a more uniform approach for primary schools.

Archer highlighted that this arrangement allows for better logistical planning, enabling more efficient bus route design and potentially reducing the number of buses needed by up to four. The goal is to maximize seating capacity and improve operational efficiency.

Option Two: A Shift in Priorities

Option Two introduces a different sequence, with the middle school starting first at 7:30 a.m., followed by the high school and middle school at 8:00 a.m., and primary schools beginning at 9:20 a.m. This option reflects a strategic decision based on varying day lengths across different school levels. Primary schools would have a 6-hour and 20-minute day, middle schools would have 6 hours and 40 minutes, and high schools would have 7 hours and 1 minute.

Archer noted that this option could be implemented without additional costs or fleet expansion. The cost per bus annually is approximately $100,000. Beers added that both options aim to restore instructional time lost due to previous transportation challenges, ensuring a more balanced schedule for all students.

Concerns and Suggestions from the Board

Several board members raised concerns about the implications of these options. Jeremy Li and Michael Pepe expressed worries about the later start times for primary schools under Option Two, suggesting a possible adjustment of 10 to 15 minutes earlier. However, Archer cautioned that such changes could disrupt the entire schedule, requiring careful consideration.

Lucy Li also voiced concerns about the impact of later dismissal times on sports and the financial burden on parents who may need to use before-care services. Beers acknowledged that while an 8 a.m. start time is ideal, it is not feasible for all students, and some will still need to start earlier or later.

Parent Perspectives and Additional Considerations

During public comment, several parents supported Option Two, highlighting the benefits of a later start time for high school students. Megan Simone, a parent and teacher, shared how a later start time improved sleep, wellness, and overall student well-being.

Laura Kress, President of the Bridgewater-Raritan Education Association (BREA), asked about the impact of late buses on students needing extra help or participating in sports. Beers confirmed that the district is exploring the possibility of adding late buses, starting with the middle school and then the high school.

Next Steps and Final Decision

The board has not yet decided on a preferred option, but they plan to discuss their preferences during the September 30 meeting. This will allow time for the district to finalize new transportation routes and issue bids in January.

Board President Steven Singer emphasized that any decision will involve challenges and careful consideration of all impacts. He assured that the board and administration are committed to making choices that benefit students and the community.

As the district moves forward, the proposed changes reflect a thoughtful approach to balancing logistical needs, student well-being, and operational efficiency.