After weeks of enduring a punishing heatwave, Kashmir has finally received some much-needed respite. With scattered rainfall across the Valley and a significant dip in day and night temperatures, the harsh spell of extreme summer appears to have broken. The mercury, which had soared well above seasonal averages, has now returned to more comfortable levels and even below it, bringing much-needed relief not just to people but to nature as well. In this changed weather scenario, it is an opportune time for the administration to reconsider and revise school timings from the current early morning schedule to regular hours. The early morning school schedule—often starting as early as 7 am—was a necessary step during the peak of the heatwave. With classrooms turning into ovens and transport becoming unbearable in the sweltering heat, especially for younger children, the timing adjustment was a pragmatic measure to safeguard students’ health. However, with the drop in temperature and improved weather conditions, continuing with this altered schedule seems unnecessary and counterproductive. There are several compelling reasons to revert to normal school timings. First, the early morning hours are particularly difficult for small children. Waking up around dawn, rushing through morning routines, and travelling in the chilly early hours of the day can take a toll on their physical and mental well-being. The fatigue from disrupted sleep cycles affects concentration and productivity in classrooms, undermining the very purpose of education. Second, the logistical challenges for parents and school staff also multiply with such timings. From arranging transportation at odd hours to managing work schedules, the altered routine creates avoidable stress across households. Moreover, with cooler weather prevailing, there is no longer a compelling reason to force such discomfort upon families. It is also important to remember that the school curriculum and teaching methodologies are structured around a full day’s engagement. Shortened or shifted schedules compromise both instruction time and the broader rhythm of learning activities, including outdoor sports, extracurriculars, and remedial sessions. Reverting to regular timings will allow schools to resume a more holistic, balanced routine that supports all-round development. While weather patterns remain unpredictable, the current conditions strongly support the return to normal school timings. The Education Department must act promptly, based on inputs from the Meteorological Department, school heads, and the public, to ensure that student welfare remains at the centre of decision-making. As Kashmir transitions into more temperate summer days, it’s time to put the disruptions of the heatwave behind us. A return to normal school hours will not only restore order but also enhance the quality of education—something our children rightly deserve.