Washington DC School Calendar 2026-2027

Washington, D.C. operates a distinctive public education landscape unlike any U.S. state, as it is a federal district governed by the DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE). DC Public Schools (DCPS) is the traditional public school system, but the District is also home to one of the largest public charter school sectors in the nation — nearly half of all public school students in DC attend charter schools, which may follow their own academic calendars. The 2026–2027 DCPS academic year begins in late August and concludes in mid-June, meeting the 180-day instructional requirement. DC's school calendar includes all standard federal holidays, which carry particular significance given the District's role as the seat of the federal government; events such as presidential inaugurations (held every four years in January) can affect school schedules. Standard breaks include Thanksgiving, a two-week winter recess, and spring break in late March or early April. DC has undertaken significant education reform efforts over the past two decades, including the introduction of mayoral control of schools and an expanded school choice framework. The District serves a predominantly minority student population and has made measurable gains in graduation rates and standardized test scores. Families should confirm calendar details directly with DCPS or their specific charter school, as schedules vary.