Every year in February, students, parents, and teachers across the United States ask the same question: is there school on Presidents Day? The short answer for most public schools is no — but the full answer depends on where you live and the type of school you attend. In this detailed guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Presidents Day, school schedules, why schools close, and exceptions you should be aware of.
What Is Presidents Day?
Presidents Day is a federal holiday in the United States that honors American presidents, particularly George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. The holiday is officially known as Washington’s Birthday, though it is widely referred to as Presidents Day.
It is observed on the third Monday in February each year. In 2026, for example, Presidents Day falls on February 16.
The holiday was originally established to celebrate George Washington’s birthday (February 22), but over time it evolved into a broader celebration recognizing all U.S. presidents.
Is There School on Presidents Day?
In most cases, public schools do not hold classes on Presidents Day because it is a federally recognized holiday. School districts typically align their academic calendars with federal holidays, and Presidents Day is commonly listed as a non-instructional day.
However, policies can vary by:
- State
- School district
- Public vs. private institutions
- Charter schools
- Colleges and universities
So while the majority of K–12 public schools are closed, it is always best to confirm with your local school district’s calendar.
Why Are Schools Closed on Presidents Day?
There are several reasons schools usually close on Presidents Day:
Federal Recognition
Presidents Day is one of the official federal holidays in the United States. Federal government offices close, and many state and local government offices follow suit.
Educational Significance
The holiday serves as an opportunity to reflect on American history and leadership. Many schools incorporate lessons about the U.S. presidency in the days leading up to the holiday.
Long Weekend Scheduling
Because Presidents Day falls on a Monday, it creates a three-day weekend for students and staff. Many school districts use this time for:
- Teacher professional development
- Mid-winter break
- Curriculum planning
- Facility maintenance
Do Private Schools Have Classes on Presidents Day?
Private schools are not required to follow federal holiday schedules. Some private institutions close in observance of Presidents Day, while others remain open.
Religious schools may follow their own academic calendar that does not always align with federal holidays. Therefore, it is important to check directly with the school administration.
What About Colleges and Universities?
Most colleges and universities observe Presidents Day as a holiday and cancel classes. However, policies vary.
Some institutions:
- Remain open but cancel classes
- Close administrative offices but keep libraries open
- Continue classes as scheduled
Students should always consult their institution’s official academic calendar to confirm.
Do All States Observe Presidents Day the Same Way?
While Presidents Day is recognized nationwide, some states give it different names or emphasize different historical figures.
For example:
- Some states still refer to it as Washington’s Birthday.
- Others officially call it Presidents Day.
- A few states recognize both Washington and Lincoln individually.
Regardless of the name, most public schools in every state close for the holiday.
Are Daycares and After-School Programs Closed?
Daycare centers and childcare programs do not always follow public school calendars. Some remain open even when schools are closed.
It depends on:
- Whether the facility is privately owned
- Whether it follows federal holiday closures
- Parent demand for childcare services
Parents should verify schedules in advance, especially if they rely on daycare during school breaks.
What Services Are Closed on Presidents Day?
Since Presidents Day is a federal holiday, many government-run services are closed, including:
- Post offices
- Federal courts
- DMV offices (in many states)
- Public libraries (varies by location)
Banks are typically closed as well because they follow the Federal Reserve holiday schedule.
However, retail stores, restaurants, and shopping centers are generally open — and many even offer Presidents Day sales.
What Happens If Presidents Day Falls During Winter Break?
Some school districts schedule a full mid-winter break around Presidents Day. In these cases, students may already be off for several days before and after the holiday.
In certain northern states where winter weather is severe, districts may also use this time as a built-in snow buffer period.
Can Schools Choose to Stay Open?
Yes, technically, local school districts have control over their academic calendars. While rare, a district could choose to hold classes on Presidents Day, particularly if:
- Weather closures caused lost instructional days
- The district does not observe all federal holidays
- The school operates on a unique academic calendar
However, this is uncommon for traditional public schools.
How Can You Confirm If There Is School?
To avoid confusion, follow these simple steps:
Check the official school district website
Look at the academic calendar
Call the school office
Check automated school messaging systems
Review parent portal notifications
Most school districts publish their full academic calendar at the beginning of the school year, listing all holidays and breaks.
What Do Students Usually Do on Presidents Day?
For many students, Presidents Day means:
- A long weekend
- Extra time for homework
- Family activities
- Travel
- Community events
Some museums and historical sites offer special educational programming on Presidents Day. For example, landmarks connected to George Washington may host commemorative events, though schedules vary by location.
Retail stores often run major sales, making it one of the busiest shopping weekends of the winter season.
Historical Background of Presidents Day
Presidents Day became a federal holiday in 1879, initially honoring George Washington. In 1971, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act shifted the holiday to the third Monday of February to create more three-day weekends for workers.
Although it is still officially called Washington’s Birthday at the federal level, the term “Presidents Day” gained popularity to recognize additional presidents, especially Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday is February 12.
Today, the holiday celebrates the legacy, leadership, and contributions of all U.S. presidents.
Exceptions to the Rule
Although most public schools are closed, there are exceptions:
- Online schools may still assign coursework.
- Some vocational or trade schools may remain open.
- Schools needing to make up snow days may hold classes.
- International schools outside the U.S. typically do not observe the holiday.
This is why checking locally is always the safest option.
Conclusion
So, is there school on Presidents Day? In most cases, the answer is no for public K–12 schools in the United States. Presidents Day is a federally recognized holiday observed on the third Monday in February, and most school districts close to honor the occasion.
However, private schools, colleges, daycare centers, and specialized institutions may follow different schedules. The best way to be certain is to check your local academic calendar.
Presidents Day provides not only a welcome long weekend for many students but also an opportunity to reflect on the leadership and history of the United States.
FAQs
1. Is Presidents Day a federal holiday?
Yes, Presidents Day (officially Washington’s Birthday) is a federal holiday observed on the third Monday in February.
2. Are all public schools closed on Presidents Day?
Most public schools are closed, but policies may vary by district. Always check your local school calendar.
3. Do private schools close on Presidents Day?
Not always. Private schools set their own academic calendars and may or may not observe the holiday.
4. Are colleges open on Presidents Day?
Many colleges cancel classes, but some remain open. It depends on the institution.
5. Do daycare centers close on Presidents Day?
Some daycare centers close, but many remain open. Parents should confirm directly with their childcare provider.
