The Hillsborough County School District is considering changes to the time school starts and ends for students across the county in an effort to help students get to class on time.

  • District holding focus group discussions
  • Proposal could go before school board in April

"We don't have enough time in between grade levels to pick up students, drop them off, get to the next school and drop students off," said school spokeswoman Tanya Arja.

Before moving forward with any changes, the district is holding focus group discussions with students, parents and teachers.

Sickles High School Principal Jake Russell met with students Wednesday for feedback.

When told one possibility would be starting their days 15 minutes earlier and ending nearly an hour earlier, the reaction was positive.

"We'll be out earlier from sports activities, and personally I can take care of my brother," said junior Michelle Rivera.

If recommended by the district superintendent, the proposal will go before the school board at the end of April.