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Physicians present to Chesterfield parents reason to push back school start time

Posted at 1:44 AM, Oct 29, 2014
and last updated 2014-10-29 01:46:55-04

CHESTERFIELD, Va. -- Two Virginia Commonwealth University physicians made the case to parents, teachers and students in Chesterfield County for pushing back school start times for high school students at a public engagement session Tuesday night.

"When they're in class their brain is saying no, need more sleep," Dr. David Leszczyszyn, Director of VCU's Center for Sleep Medicine, said.

"Melatonin levels peek for teens at 7 am compared to 4 am for adults," Dr. Suzanne Mazzeo, Professor of Psychology and Pediatrics at VCU, said.

A Wellness Council, created in Chesterfield and tasked with developing strategies for healthier lifestyles, came up with the idea to push back school start times.