New York City public school students are getting a bonus day off this week—schools will be closed on Thursday, June 19, in honor of Juneteenth, giving kids one more breather before summer vacation officially begins.
What’s Closed?
This Article Includes
In addition to public schools, government offices, banks, and the U.S. Postal Service will also be closed. While the city’s forecast is rainy earlier in the week, sunshine is expected to return by Thursday, perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.
This marks another holiday added to the NYC school calendar, which also recognized Diwali, Asian Lunar New Year, and Eid al-Adha this year.
Summer Is Almost Here
With summer break starting June 26, students will enjoy a full break until September 4, when the 2025–2026 school year begins.
What Is Juneteenth?
Often called “Jubilee Day” or “Black Independence Day,” Juneteenth celebrates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the U.S.
Although President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, enslaved people in Texas didn’t receive word until June 19, 1865—more than two years later.
The first Juneteenth celebration took place in Galveston, Texas, in 1866. After years of grassroots recognition, President Joe Biden signed it into law as a federal holiday in 2021.
DEI Showdown with Trump Admin
This year’s celebration comes amid political tension. New York state officials are defying the Trump administration’s efforts to dismantle diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in public schools.
In a strongly worded response to threats of federal funding cuts, Daniel Morton-Bentley, deputy commissioner of the NY Department of Education, wrote:
“We understand that the current administration seeks to censor anything it deems ‘diversity, equity & inclusion.’ But there are no federal or State laws prohibiting the principles of DEI.”
Bottom Line
New York City students get to celebrate Juneteenth this Thursday with a well-timed day off, honoring a pivotal moment in American history—while education officials continue pushing back on efforts to limit inclusive learning across the state.
