2026 Texas Public School Calendar: Key Dates, Breaks, and What Families Should Know

School Holidays USA 2025–2026: Complete Guide by Region and State

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Unlike some states with a single centralized school calendar, Texas public schools operate on district-based schedules. While the state sets minimum requirements for instructional days, each Independent School District (ISD) determines its own calendar within those guidelines.

For families planning ahead, understanding the common patterns of the Texas public school calendar in 2026 can help with childcare, travel, and academic preparation. This guide reflects the most up-to-date information available under rules set by the Texas Education Agency.

Read more: School Holidays and Breaks in the US 2026: Key Dates, Schedules - Month by Month

Texas School Calendar 2026

Texas Public School Calendar 2025–2026: Typical 2026 Dates

Important: Dates below represent statewide norms, not exact dates for every district. Parents should always confirm with their local ISD.

Read more: Spring Break 2026: When Do U.S. Schools Take a Break — and Why It’s Rarely the Same Week

Common Texas School Holidays in 2026

Most Texas ISDs observe a similar set of holidays, even though calendars differ slightly:

• Labor Day (September)

• Thanksgiving Break (3–5 days in late November)

• Winter Break (late December through early January)

• Martin Luther King Jr. Day (January 19, 2026)

• Spring Break (March)

• Memorial Day (May, in some districts)

In addition, many districts include local staff development days, student holidays, or flex days that may not align with neighboring districts.

Instructional Requirements in Texas

Texas law requires public schools to meet one of the following instructional standards:

• 180 instructional days, or

• 75,600 minutes of instruction per year

This flexibility allows districts to design calendars with shorter days, longer breaks, or additional early-release days while remaining compliant with state law.

Read more: 2026 New York Public School Calendar: Key Dates, Holidays & Breaks for NYC Students and Families

What Parents Should Know for 2026

District Calendars Matter

In Texas, two families living in the same city may follow different school calendars if they belong to different ISDs. Always check your district’s official website.

Weather Make-Up Days

Many districts build bad weather days into their calendars, especially in North and Central Texas. If unused, these days may convert into student holidays.

Testing Periods

Statewide assessments (STAAR and end-of-course exams) typically take place in April and May, with retesting windows in June.

School Holidays in the US

Planning Tips for Texas Families

1. Download Your ISD Calendar Early – Most districts release calendars 12–18 months in advance.

2. Watch for Board Updates – Local school boards can approve minor calendar changes midyear.

3. Plan Travel Carefully – Spring Break weeks vary and may not align with neighboring districts.

4. Check Childcare Options – Student holidays often remain workdays for parents.

The 2026 Texas Public School Calendar reflects the state’s emphasis on local control and flexibility. While there is no single statewide calendar, understanding common patterns and state requirements helps families plan ahead with confidence. Checking your local ISD calendar remains the most reliable way to stay informed throughout the school year.

Official & Trusted Sources

For accurate and current information, families should rely on these official websites:

• Texas Education Agency:
  https://www.tea.texas.gov

• Local Independent School District (ISD) websites
  (Search “[Your District Name] school calendar”)

• Texas Legislature – Education Code:
  https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov