Some MN Schools to Start Before Labor Day

(AP) Minnesota public schools are prohibited from starting the school year before Labor Day. The idea is to maintain strong late summer tourism, and keep the turn styles spinning at the Minnesota State Fair.

However, the Minnesota Department of Education has granted 25 school districts in southwestern Minnesota a exemption. The districts say they need the extra time to prepare their students for the high stakes tests come spring time.

Commissioner Alice Seagren granted the exemption under what's called a flexible learning year.