Tired Teachers

Next time you think that philosophy teacher sitting behind his desk is deep in thought...perhaps contemplating the nature of our existence...check again. He may be asleep.
A new study from Ball State University says that nearly a fourth of teachers surveyed are sleep deprived, and at a greater risk of missing work or making errors.
Researchers think long work days, which often stretch well into the night, are behind the faculty fatigue.

Other highlights:

• About 43 percent slept an average of 6 hours or less each night, which is less than the 7 to 9 hours recommended for healthy functioning.
• About 64 percent said they felt drowsy during the school day.
• Half of respondents experienced daytime sleepiness at least three times per week and either missed work or made errors at the workplace at least one day in the previous three months due to a lack of sleep.
• Only a third of school personnel admitted to getting a good night's sleep most of the time.
• Female respondents are more prone to suffer sleep disturbances, drowsiness and sleep problems.

Researcher Denise Amschler says the study underscores the importance of stress and workload reduction programs and support for the new federally mandated wellness policies for schools.