Students at Ledyard High School may soon notice a surprising change in their schedules. According to an announcement made by school administrators on Monday morning, the current period, known as flex block, will officially be replaced with “Nap Block.” The change is part of a new initiative designed to help students feel more rested and focused during the school day. 

Administrators say many students are running on very little sleep due to homework , sports, jobs, and late night screen time. “Research shows teenagers need more sleep than adults, educators stated in an  Education Department meeting. “If students are tired, they can’t learn effectively. Nap Block gives them the time to recharge, so they can do better in their classes.” Instead of working on assignments or meeting with teachers, students will be encouraged  to rest quietly in classrooms. Lights will be dimmed, calming music will be played to create a relaxing environment. Occasionally, a duo of violin players pass you by, they are there to play their song and ease you into a deep nap. Teachers are already preparing for the change, by rearranging their classrooms for students to rest. Some classrooms will include yoga mats and small cushions for added comfort. You can bring anything for your own comfort, some teachers will be giving inflatable bunk beds as well as fold out beds from the wall that will have to be installed. During this period, if you are awake and need to use the bathroom, be aware the lights will be off and are not allowed on until after nap time. Using the bathroom, you will have to carry  candlelight in your hands as you travel to see. Lights on will be prohibited during the Nap Block. Reactions from students have been mixed. “I’ve been waiting for this my whole high school career” said Ariana Grande “If I can nap at school and not get in trouble for it, that’s a win.”  Others are worried about what could happen, if students fall into a deep sleep. “What if someone starts snoring during Nap Block?” Timothee Chalamet asked, “That could get awkward really fast.” School officials say alarms will ring at the end of Nap Block to wake everyone up before the next class begins. They are also reminding students while resting is encouraged, sleeping through the rest of the school day is still not allowed. If you are caught napping after or before Nap Block, you will be suspended from school as this new adjustment is happening; this is to encourage students to be awake during the day to sleep during nap block and not miss any work, as they continue during the day this rule applies. 

NO NAPPING BEFORE OR AFTER NAP BLOCK.

 Administrators say they are excited to see how Nap Block affects students’ performance and overall mood at school. If the program is successful, they may even consider it being a full last period instead of your normal period; this is still in the air as it may mean shorter classes and lunches, to allow for nap time at the end of the day. For now, students are encouraged to prepare for the upcoming Nap Block, as this is a trial run. Not all necessities are applied in classes yet, so students are encouraged to bring a small pillow and blanket, as well as any sleeping needs, to leave in advisory for the Nap Block. All classrooms will also have a closet to hang pajamas and slippers in. Administrators said students should remember to check the calendar. Especially when the announcement happens on April 1st.

Gabriella Dickson, Staff Writer

Sophomore Gabriella Dickson is a staff writer for the 2025-2026 Colonelnews Magazine. She’s a Professional Overthinker and a part-time writer, and once googled “How to write a byline”