Veterans Day is a federal holiday in the United States observed annually on November 11. While all non-essential federal government offices and banks are closed on this date, the decision for public and private school closures is not federally mandated. Instead, this determination is made at the state or, more commonly, the local school district level. Consequently, there is no universal answer; whether a school is in session on this day varies significantly by jurisdiction.
The variation in school schedules on November 11 stems from differing state laws and local priorities. Some states have legislation requiring public schools to close in observance of the holiday, while in other states, the decision is delegated to individual school boards. These boards weigh factors such as state requirements for minimum instructional days, local traditions, and the educational value of observing the holiday during school hours. Many schools that remain open conduct special programs, assemblies, or curriculum-focused activities to honor veterans, viewing the date as a unique teachable moment.
To obtain a definitive schedule, it is essential to consult the official academic calendar for the specific school or district in question. This information is typically published on the school district's website well in advance of the academic year. Contacting a school's administrative office directly is the most reliable method for confirming closures or planned special observances for the holiday.
