As the summer comes to an end, parents and students across the United States are gearing up for the start of a new school year. Gone are the days when school used to start after Labor Day. Nowadays, schools kick off their academic calendar earlier in the year. Let’s take a closer look at the modern school year start dates across the country.
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When do kids go back to school?
School year start dates vary widely across the country. The majority of schools now resume classes in August, with only a few states sticking to later start dates in September.
In 2024-25, nearly half of public schools (47%) reported start dates before August 16.
In states like Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, and others, the bulk of schools reopen in early to mid-August, setting the tone for the academic year.
A little more than a third of public schools (35%) bring students back in mid- to late August.
In states like Connecticut, Delaware, and Maryland, it’s common for students to return to school between August 16 and 31, marking the beginning of a new academic journey.
Just 16% of public schools started the new year after September 1 in 2024-25.
States like New Jersey, Oregon, and Washington are among the few where schools commence the academic year after September 1, allowing for a slightly later start compared to other states.
For a detailed breakdown of school start and end dates by state, head over to MDR Education.
When do year-round schools go back to school?
Contrary to popular belief, year-round schools do have summer vacations, though shorter in duration. These schools typically break for about six weeks during June, July, and August, with classes resuming in early August or late July.
About 2% of schools in the United States operate on a year-round schedule, providing a unique academic calendar for students and teachers.
When do teachers go back to school?
Teachers typically return to school a week or two before students to prepare their classrooms, undergo training, and plan for the upcoming academic year. Despite the break, many teachers engage in professional development and spend time planning during the summer.
Interestingly, around half of teachers work a second job during their summer break, showcasing their dedication and commitment to their profession.
Do kids go back to school earlier than they used to?
Unlike the past, where school traditionally started after Labor Day, the majority of schools now commence classes in August. This shift has been influenced by various factors, including better alignment of semesters, more prep time for standardized tests, and longer midyear breaks.
Getting ready for the new school year? Visit our Back to School hub for resources, tips, and advice!
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