Los Angeles

Why More California Schools Start in Early August

In Los Angeles County, 22 school districts started school this week, and only four of the county’s 80 districts do not have an August start date, according to the Los Angeles County Office of Education.

For some children in Los Angeles County, the first day of school has seemed to move earlier and earlier into August. That change has left some parents wondering what happened to school typically starting after Labor Day?

In Los Angeles County, 22 school districts started school this week, and only four of the county’s 80 districts do not have an August start date, according to the Los Angeles County Office of Education.

By starting school in August, teachers and students are able to complete the first semester before leaving for winter break. Earlier start dates also give students more time to study before they take state standardized tests and Advanced Placement exams, and has given some schools the opportunity to extend their winter breaks so they can schedule catch-up classes to take place during the break.

Yet, the change in schedule has raised some districts’ electricity bills because of the August heat.

Palm Springs Unified School District started school Wednesday, and school district spokeswoman Joan Boiko said that their start date adds about $6,500 more per day to their electricity bill, largely due to the cost of air conditioning.

Read more at KPPC.

Contact Us