Iowa Patch Poll: When Should School Begin?

State law requires public schools to start classes the week of Sept. 1, but only a handful actually do.

In fact in 2012 all but 8 school districts started their first day of school during the month of August, according to a recent report in the Des Moines Register.

Districts are allowed to begin classes early by requesting a waiver from the Iowa Department of Education and tourism officials filed a petition with the district asking them to tighten restrictions on the waiver process.

School officials like the early date because it aligns with fall football schedules (that begin in mid-August) and allows high school students to complete a full semester and take final tests before a winter break.

However, the tourism industry said the early starts cut into their profits and the availability of their teen work force.

Jason Glass, an outgoing director of the Iowa Department of Education, told the Des Moines Register that moving to start date to Aug. 20 could be a winning compromise for all.

When should school start? Should each district be allowed to chose their own date? Tell us in the comments.