(KAIR)--The start of school for students of Atchison County Community Schools has been pushed back. 

The USD 377 Board of Education, during a special meeting Thursday, voted to move the first day of school from August 13 to August 20.

Superintendent Andrew Gaddis, in a letter to patrons posted on the district's website, said the time will be used by teachers and staff to fully learn all of the new procedures for cleaning and keeping everyone safe. He said the time will also allow for additional training to ensure that their remote learning mode is effective for educating those that choose to use it. 

The state Board of Education last week rejected Governor Kelly's executive order delaying the start of school to September 9th,  leaving the decision to local school boards.