All public school students across New York State will get a day off this week for a last-minute holiday before the school year wraps up.
This Thursday marks Juneteenth, a federal holiday that commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. As it’s now recognized across all states, schools and many workplaces will be closed in observance.
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New York school calendars have seen several changes this year, with new holidays and schedule adjustments affecting many districts. With Juneteenth falling in the final stretch of the academic year, it adds yet another day off for students before summer break.
Some parents have voiced frustration over the late end to the school year, especially in districts where classes run right up to — or even into — the week of the 4th of July. Many attribute the extended year to new state rules on snow day makeups and additional recognized holidays. As a result, some are suggesting that schools reopen earlier in mid-August so students can finish the year sooner.
Meanwhile, many Catholic schools across New York wrap up earlier, with senior graduation ceremonies often held in May.
As the school year continues to stretch later into June, it’s sparked a debate among parents: Should schools aim for an earlier summer break, or stick with the traditional post-Labor Day start and accept a longer June?
