Minnesota School Calendar 2026-2027

Minnesota's public school system is governed by the Minnesota Department of Education and is recognized for its strong academic standards and commitment to equitable learning outcomes. The state mandates a minimum of 165 instructional days or 1,020 hours per school year, giving individual districts flexibility in how they structure the calendar. The academic year typically begins after Labor Day in early September and concludes in mid-June, reflecting the state's tradition of a post-Labor Day start. Minnesota law prohibits schools from beginning instruction before Labor Day, a policy designed to support the state's tourism and agricultural industries. Major breaks include Thanksgiving, a two-week Winter Break in late December, and a Spring Break in late March or early April. The Minneapolis and St. Paul public school districts, which serve large and diverse urban populations, may adopt modified calendars to accommodate professional development days and local observances. Minnesota consistently ranks among the top states in national education assessments, with high graduation rates and strong performance in reading and mathematics. The state also has a robust charter school sector and open enrollment policies that allow families to choose schools across district boundaries.