Atlanta School Calendar for 2025–2026: First Day, Last Day, and Holidays

Planning for the 2025–2026 Atlanta school year? Whether you’re a parent organizing family vacations or a substitute teacher preparing for the classroom, knowing the key school dates across Atlanta can help you stay ahead.

Here’s a helpful breakdown of first and last days of school, holiday breaks, and calendar variations across public and charter schools in the Atlanta area.

When is the First Day of School in Atlanta (2025–2026)?

For most schools in the Atlanta metro area, students will begin the new school year in early August.

• Atlanta Public Schools (APS):

  First Day: Monday, August 4, 2025

  Teacher pre-planning begins August 1, 2025

• Dekalb County Schools:

  First Day: Monday, August 4, 2025

• Atlanta Heights Charter School:

  First Day: Thursday, July 31, 2025

Although most traditional public schools start on August 4, some charter schools (like Atlanta Heights) start earlier. Always double-check your school’s calendar.

When is the Last Day of School in Atlanta (2025-2026 school year)?

End-of-year dates vary slightly depending on the district or school type:

• Atlanta Public Schools (APS):

  Last Day: Friday, May 22, 2026

• Dekalb County Schools:

  Last Day: Thursday, May 28, 2026

• Atlanta Heights Charter School:

  Last Day: Thursday, May 28, 2026

Substitute teachers and families should note that APS finishes a full week earlier than many nearby schools.

Atlanta School Holidays: 2025–2026

Most districts and charter schools in the Atlanta area follow a similar holiday schedule, with a few exceptions for teacher workdays or professional development days.

Atlanta 2025–2026 School Holidays

Holiday	Dates
Labor Day	Monday, September 1, 2025
Fall Break	October 13–17, 2025
Election Day (Teacher Workday)	Tuesday, November 4, 2025
Thanksgiving Break	November 24–28, 2025
Winter Break	December 22, 2025 – January 2, 2026
MLK Jr. Day	Monday, January 19, 2026
Mid-Winter Break	February 16–20, 2026
Spring Break	April 6–10, 2026
Memorial Day	Monday, May 25, 2026

While there may be minor differences across charters and private schools, most follow these major breaks.

Key Takeaways

• Atlanta Public Schools start on August 4, 2025, and end May 22, 2026.

• Most schools share major holiday breaks, including full weeks for Thanksgiving, winter, and spring breaks.

• Charter schools like Atlanta Heights may begin earlier (July 31) or end slightly later.

• Always confirm with your specific school for early release days or professional development closures.

  
  

Looking for substitute teaching jobs in Atlanta? HelloSubs helps you choose your own schedule, get paid weekly, and match with schools across Georgia. Apply to become a substitute teacher today!