In 2019, California’s Legislature and Governor placed restrictions on what time schools may start. This bill, Senate Bill 328, does not allow middle schools to start before 8 a.m. and does not allow high schools to start before 8:30 a.m. Schools across the state have until July 1, 2022 to obey the law and apply new schedules.

This law will cause significant changes to school schedules in the Victor Valley Union High School District. All of our high schools must start at 8:30 a.m. or later, and this includes grade 7-12 schools such as Cobalt Institute of Math & Science, Lakeview Leadership Academy and University Preparatory School. 

This matter is further complicated by the logistical challenges of transporting thousands of students to and from school; therefore having all high schools start at the same time is not feasible. We understand this may cause significant disruptions for our students and families; particularly those with students in multiple schools or those who participate in afterschool activities such as sports.

District management and the Board of Trustees are working on solutions for schools that will minimize disruptions; however we must comply with state law, and schedule changes will be unavoidable.

We have investigated the possibility of applying for an exemption from the law; however VVUHSD does not meet the requirements for such an exemption. At this time, it appears that the only hope for avoiding these changes is to lobby our state legislators and Governor to suspend and/or repeal SB 328. 

If you oppose these changes, you may consider contacting your representatives to know your opinions and how the changes may adversely affect you and your family.

State Senator Scott Wilk
Victor Valley Office
14343 Civic Drive, First Floor
Victorville, CA 92392
Phone: (760) 843-8414
Fax: (760) 843-8343
Rebecca Tennison - Field Representative

State Assemblyman Thurston “Smitty” Smith
District Office
9700 7th Avenue, Suite 227
Hesperia, CA 92345
Phone: (760) 244-5277
Fax: (760) 244-5447

Governor Gavin Newsom
1021 O Street, Suite 9000
Sacramento, CA 95814
Phone: (916) 445-2841
Fax: (916) 558-3160