State School Board Discusses Waivers to Labor Day Start

BALTIMORE (AP) -- Maryland's state school board has adopted a resolution to "expeditiously" approve waivers to Gov. Larry Hogan's order to start school after Labor Day starting next year, if local school boards can explain the educational benefits to students.

The board adopted the resolution Tuesday.

Doug Mayer, Hogan's spokesman, says Superintendent Karen Salmon and board member Andy Smarick have assured the governor's office that the board will not approve waivers before the regulations have been adopted. He says that could take about 90 days.

Mayer also says the executive order requires a "compelling justification" for a waiver.

Smarick says the board is beginning the process of figuring out how to handle requests for waivers.

Supporters say the delayed start would boost tourism and increase family time. But opponents say it shortchanges education.