MARIETTA, Ga. - A divided Cobb County school board has decided to start the next two school years a week earlier in August and include a fall break for teachers and students.

The Marietta Daily Journal reports that the board approved the 2014-15 and 2015-16 school calendars by a 4-3 vote after an hour-long discussion Thursday night.

The school calendar issue has been contentious in the suburban Atlanta county, where students supply much of the workforce for tourist attractions such as Six Flags Over Georgia and Six Flags White Water during the summer months.

Parent Sarah Lyons urged the board to make a decision with the students in mind, not Six Flags over Georgia.

But parent Jennifer Fink said that summer jobs, relaxation and family vacations are important for children.