There are a number of school districts that have the younger students start a bit later in order to provide a more comfortable first day of school for the earlier learners, and Manassas City Public Schools (MCPS) is one of them.

MCPS school officials said last year elementary school principals made the request for a delayed start date for Kindergartners after piloting the idea  proved it successful for everyone—from teachers to parents and students.

The first day of school can be overwhelming for anyone, but especially for Kindergartners who may be leaving their parents for the first time and are usually not familiar with the building.

The confusion that can surround the first day of school gets taken care of, so when the little ones roll in a day later, they can have a smooth first day.

The move also frees up extra teachers—who would not necessarily be available on the first day—to help in the Kindergarten classrooms.

Myer said the school system exceeds the state required instructional time, so by missing one day the students are not being cheated.

Myer said the school system has not received any complaints or concerns about the delayed start day, but every year does see two or three Kindergartners arrive at school on the wrong day.

Grades 1-12 all started today (Sept. 4). Be sure to share your photos of the first day of school