By Makaria Sanders

As the time nears for report cards to be printed, sent home, and examined by parents, students often feel anxiety tugging at their stomachs and forcing them to stress about their grades. After all, a student’s grade point average is valuable currency in the world of education. The more A’s you put in the bank, the better. However, despite the fact that most students understand the importance of their grades, they often forget the importance of their sleep, which ultimately affects their efficiency at school.

         It’s hard to remain alert in class after losing sleep the night before. Dorman sophomore Alyssa Rhodes agrees that more sleep enhances a student’s performance in school. “School is very challenging and requires a good night’s sleep,” Rhodes explains. However, most students don’t get enough sleep at night. According to the Sleep Foundation, “Teens need about 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night to function best. Most teens do not get enough sleep— one study found that only 15% reported sleeping 8 1/2 hours on school nights.” Although sleep is a necessity, it is often forgotten or deferred because other pressing activities such as athletics, clubs, work, and (let’s face it) television. This sleep deprivation harms your body, slowing your ability to pay attention, process information, and think creatively.

         If you want to improve your grades, try going to bed earlier each night. It’s been proven that you will be better able to do your best at school if you make sure your body is taken care of. So, remember… before you hit the books, make sure you hit the hay!