Senate Bill 328 (SB 328) was created by legislators to address adolescent sleep deprivation. The law requires that the school day for middle and junior high schools begin no earlier than 8 a.m., and the school day for high schools begin no earlier than 8:30 a.m. School districts must adopt these changes no later than July 1, 2022.
Although the law specifies middle, junior high and high schools, due to transportation and nutrition services needs, bell schedules at our elementary schools will also be affected.
The in-person informational meeting scheduled for Wednesday, January 12 has been postponed.
Submit questions regarding SB 328 via email to SB328@mcs4kids.com.
SB 328 FAQs
What is SB 328?
Per SB 328, effective July 1, 2022, middle and junior high schools may not begin before 8:00 a.m., and high schools may not begin before 8:30 a.m. This rule applies to middle, junior high and high schools, including those operated by charter schools, except for those classified as rural school districts.
Will this affect elementary schools?
Yes. Due to transportation and nutrition services needs, elementary school start times may also be affected.
When will SB 328 be fully implemented in Modesto City Schools?
By law, we must implement the bell time changes by July 1, 2022. The new bell times will be in place for the 2022-2023 school year.
Why was SB 328 created?
SB 328 was created by California legislators to address adolescent sleep deprivation.
How will families and staff be informed of the SB 328 implementation?
Modesto City Schools hosted a virtual informational meeting on October 20, 2021, and will host an in-person informational meeting on Wednesday, January 12, 2022. Meeting details are at the top of this page.
This webpage will be updated as new information is available.
Is there an opportunity to provide feedback?
Yes. Use the following email address to provide feedback: SB328@mcs4kids.com
Have the school start times already been decided?
At the high school level, first period will begin at 8:30 a.m. Middle, junior high and elementary schools start times have not been determined at this time. Family and staff feedback will be considered in the decision-making process.
If school starts later, what time will it get out?
When schools shift their start times, their end times usually shift accordingly. The exact time may vary as schools have some flexibility in their schedules and school calendars, and are expected to make reasonable scheduling adjustments.
Who can answer questions about SB 328 or the bell time changes?
Submit questions via email to SB328@mcs4kids.com. Questions submitted by noon on October 19 will be answered during the virtual informational meeting on October 20 at 6 p.m.
Where can we learn more about SB 328 and the benefits to a later start to school?